About five people have died, and over 70 cars burnt as a result of a tanker explosion on Friday night at the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State.
The tragic incident happened when a petrol-laden tanker collided with a heavy-duty truck, spilling its contents and bursting into flames.
According to eyewitnesses, the inferno quickly spread to a long stretch of vehicles plying the Akpajo-Onne Road, which was already gridlocked due to the ongoing construction. The inferno engulfed numerous cars, leaving many of charred and destroyed.
“It was a horrific sight,” said Baridi, an eyewitness. “The explosion happened around 9 pm, and the fire spread quickly. Many cars were burnt beyond recognition.”
The Rivers State authorities have confirmed the incident, with five people reported dead and several others injured. The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation.
Baridi said, “You know that because of the bad road, there is no alternative route; so, many vehicles were caught in the fire.
“Some people inside their vehicles who tried to escape the fire were trapped in the fire and died.”
