Multiple explosions from fuel tankers at the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State have resulted in the burning of not less than 100 vehicles and an unknown number of casualties.
The incident, which occurred late Friday night, has left many travelers stranded.
According to reports, a tanker loaded with petroleum products ignited and erupted into flames, engulfing other tankers and numerous vehicles caught in a traffic jam. While some estimates suggest over 300 vehicles were consumed by the fire, others count over 100.
Although the exact number of casualties remains uncertain, sources indicate that many individuals trapped in their vehicles fell victim to the inferno. Blame for the incident has been attributed to reckless driving and the construction company responsible for the Eleme section of the road.
The fire burned for several hours before being extinguished by multiple fire service trucks, aided by support from Indoroma Petrochemical. Witnesses reported hearing loud explosions and cries for help, indicating the severity of the situation.
One resident recounted, “I heard a very loud sound about 20 minutes ago, and people were shouting. The sound came from the Petro-Chemical company area. So when I came out I saw a thick smoke with fire from a distance.”
Another eyewitness, Segun Owolabi, described the aftermath of the tragedy, stating, “I saw four dead bodies burnt. Some may have been in the bushes because many ran away. I saw a whole stretch of vehicles burnt down, trailer burnt down. There seems to be a truck carrying substances and it was as if it had a collision with another vehicle that may have ignited the fire. Over 20 vehicles burnt down and several people trapped.”
The incident has been a devastating blow to the community, with widespread destruction and loss of life.