On Saturday, January 25, 2025, a devastating fuel tanker explosion occurred at Ugwu Onyeama along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State. The incident resulted in the deaths of at least 18 individuals and left 13 others injured. The explosion, which happened around 11:30 am, was triggered when a fuel-laden tanker descending a hill collided with a water truck, leading to a massive fire that engulfed 17 vehicles, including the tankers, 15 cars, and a tricycle.
Chief Okwudili Ohaa, Director of the Enugu State Fire Service, confirmed the incident, noting that the fire raged for over an hour before firefighters could extinguish it. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies have been working to evacuate the charred remains of the victims. Many road users who fled the scene are believed to have sustained injuries.
Reacting to the tragedy, Peter Obi, a prominent Labour Party chieftain and former Anambra State governor, expressed profound sadness. In a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page, Obi emphasized the need to prioritize safety measures to prevent such frequent and devastating accidents. He stated:
“Exactly one week after a petrol tanker explosion in Niger state killed nearly a hundred persons and injured many, another explosion has just been reported in Enugu leaving 15 persons dead.
The frequency of occurrence of these tragic incidents is very concerning. This month alone, there have been at least 3 of such devastating accidents, across the country, resulting in the loss of precious lives and properties.
We must begin to truly prioritise the safety and security of lives and property by implementing measures that drastically mitigate the occurrence of these accidents, which have now become too many. We need to focus on fixing our existing roads, implementing strict road safety measures and educating our people on observing the right protocols around accident scenes.
My heart goes out to the families who are devastated by the loss of their loved ones to this terrible accident. I also sympathise with the government and people of Enugu State over this tragic occurrence. May God grant eternal rest to the dead and grant quick healing to the injured. May God grant us the fortitude to bear such irreplaceable loss.”
Similarly, Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and presidential hopeful, expressed his condolences and called for governmental action. He remarked:
“Oh dear, not again! My thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of all the victims in the fuel tanker explosion in Enugu state. May their souls find eternal rest. The incidents of tragic tanker explosions have reached emergency levels. It is time for the government to establish an inquiry into this issue.”
This tragic event underscores the recurring issue of fuel tanker accidents in Nigeria. In October 2024, over 150 people lost their lives in a similar incident in Jigawa State, and earlier in January 2025, another explosion in Niger State resulted in numerous fatalities. These frequent occurrences highlight the urgent need for comprehensive safety measures and infrastructure improvements to prevent future tragedies.
Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy, and we join in the call for immediate action to enhance road safety and prevent such incidents in the future.
