BREAKING: Ebonyi Govt mourns family of 11 who perished in tragic explosion

The Ebonyi State Government has expressed deep condolences to the Nwaji family following the tragic loss of 11 family members in a petrol tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama, along the Anambra-Enugu Expressway.

Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by his wife, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, led a delegation to Abofia village in Ebonyi Local Government Area to sympathize with the grieving family. The victims, including a father, mother, six children, younger brothers, an apprentice, and a housemaid, were returning from Anambra State for the burial of their late father, Chief Augustine Nwaji, when the fatal accident occurred on January 25, 2025.

Describing the loss as heartbreaking, Mrs. Nwifuru said, “This tragedy is deeply painful, and we share in the sorrow of the Nwaji family. Losing multiple family members in such a horrific manner is beyond comprehension. As a government, we stand with you in this time of grief and assure you of our unwavering support.”

Also present to pay their respects were the Chairman of ALGON and Ebonyi Local Government Area, Mr. Chinedu Uburu, and the Chief of Staff, Government House, Prof. Emmanuel Echiegu. They reassured the family of the state government’s commitment to supporting them through this difficult period.

A relative of the deceased, Mr. Ikechukwu Nwaji, urged the government to enforce stricter regulations on heavy-duty vehicles, suggesting they should only operate at night to reduce the risk of such devastating accidents.

He thanked the state government for its visit and support, calling for continued prayers for the bereaved family.