Panic as petrol tanker falls, blocks Anambra road

There was panic in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Tuesday after a fully loaded tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) fell at No. 18 Enugu Road, directly in front of OVL Filling Station, causing a major obstruction and raising fears of an explosion.

The accident, which occurred around 11:15 a.m., was attributed to a deflated tyre that caused the tanker to lose balance before toppling over.

The fallen vehicle completely blocked the busy section of the road, forcing authorities to divert traffic while emergency responders battled to avert a fire outbreak.

Men of the Anambra State Fire Service were immediately deployed to the scene and were seen spraying water around the tanker to neutralise any ignition source.

The Head of Media and Publicity, Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday, saying two firefighting trucks were dispatched following the distress call.

He said, “A fully loaded tanker has fallen at No. 18 Enugu Road, directly in front of OVL Filling Station, Onitsha, the commercial nerve centre of Anambra State. The cause of the accident was traced to a deflated tyre, which led to the tanker losing balance.

“The emergency call was received at 11:55 hours today, and firefighters are currently still at the scene working to ensure safety and prevent any outbreak of fire. Two firefighting trucks from the Anambra State Fire Service responded promptly to the incident.

“Motorists are strongly advised to drive with caution and ensure that all parts of their vehicles, especially heavy-duty trucks, are thoroughly checked before embarking on any journey to avoid such dangerous incidents.”

He added that more updates would be provided as the situation develops.

The incident comes just days after another petrol tanker exploded in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of the state, killing one person and destroying no fewer than six shops.

PUNCH Online reported that the Ozubulu explosion occurred late on Friday along Udoji Road after the tanker collided with a car and a tricycle, spilling its contents and triggering a massive fire.

Residents and eyewitnesses said the collision caused a loud explosion that immediately engulfed the tanker and spread to adjoining shops.

“The tanker hit a car and a tricycle, spilled its contents and then exploded. One person was burnt to death instantly. Some passengers in the tricycle sustained severe burns and were rushed to the hospital. Several shops were already on fire before the firefighters arrived,” an eyewitness had said.

The inferno, which raged for hours, caused panic and traffic gridlock as people fled the area. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps diverted vehicles to alternative routes to prevent further casualties.

Emergency responders later confirmed that the fire claimed one life and affected around six shops.