JUST-IN: 11 Confirmed Dead in Enugu Fuel Tanker Accident

As Gov’t Takes Over Treatment of Injured Victims

A tragic fuel tanker accident along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway on Saturday has claimed the lives of 11 people. The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, who visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment, expressed deep sorrow over the incident.

The governor confirmed that the state government has taken swift action to ensure the injured victims receive full medical treatment. He also emphasized that measures are being put in place to prevent future accidents, including strict enforcement of road traffic rules and addressing the poor condition of the federal road.

“This is an unfortunate tragedy. Preliminary investigations suggest the tanker had a brake failure, causing it to fall, spilling its fuel, which ignited. While investigations are still ongoing, we are focused on ensuring the survivors get the necessary medical care,” Governor Mbah said.

He directed the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Enugu State, Mr. Franklin Agbakoba, and the State’s Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Obi Ozor, to ensure that all tankers carrying inflammable materials are equipped with anti-spill locks to prevent such incidents in the future.

The governor assured that his administration would take immediate steps to address the situation. “We will not wait for the federal government to repair the road. We are committed to taking swift action to prevent a recurrence of this incident,” he added.

According to the FRSC Sector Commander, the tanker’s brake failure led to the spill of premium motor spirit, which caused the fatal fire. Eleven people died on the spot, and those injured have been rushed to hospitals for treatment. The governor also pledged to cover the medical expenses of the injured victims, showcasing leadership in the midst of the tragedy.