The Federal Road Safety Corps has identified the cause of the tanker explosion that claimed dozens of lives on the Ugwu-Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha expressway in Enugu State, on Saturday, 25th January 2025.
The tragic incident, which occurred in the afternoon, resulted in many victims being burnt beyond recognition.
In a statement by Olusegun Ogungbemide, Assistant Corps Marshal and Public Education Officer at the Federal Road Safety Corps Headquarters in Abuja, the accident was attributed to brake failure.
Ogungbemide reported that the crash involved a total of 17 vehicles, including one petroleum-laden tanker, one water tanker, 15 other vehicles, and one tricycle.
A total of 31 people were involved in the crash; 10 were rescued with varying degrees of injuries, while three were unharmed. Sadly, the remaining 18 victims were burnt beyond recognition.
According to the preliminary report received by the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the tanker, laden with premium motor spirit, experienced brake failure. The driver lost control, crashing into the 17 vehicles and igniting a fire that consumed 11 vehicles.
The Corps Marshal extended condolences to the families of the victims and wished a swift recovery for the injured.