By: Bayero Ade
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has expressed deep sadness over the petrol tanker explosion on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals on Saturday.
According to Afripost, during a visit to the accident site in Ugwu-Onyeama for an on-the-spot assessment, the governor announced that immediate steps were being taken to ensure the victims received comprehensive medical care.
Governor Mbah also outlined measures aimed at preventing future accidents, including stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and repairs to the damaged section of the federal road.
Describing the incident as “tragic,” Governor Mbah extended his condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preventing such incidents in the future.
He instructed Franklin Agbakoba, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) sector commander in Enugu, and Obi Ozor, the state Commissioner for Transport, to ensure that all tankers transporting flammable materials are equipped with anti-spill locks to reduce the risk of accidents.
“This incident involved a tanker that, according to preliminary investigations, may have experienced brake failure, overturned, and spilled premium motor spirit, leading to the explosion. The investigation is ongoing, and law enforcement agencies are looking into the matter,” Governor Mbah stated.
The governor confirmed that those injured in the explosion had been transported to hospitals and are receiving full medical care.
“My health commissioner, special adviser on health, the chief medical director of Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, the police, and the FRSC are all working together to provide the best care to the survivors,” he added.
Governor Mbah emphasized that the government would introduce additional traffic safety measures to reduce the chances of similar incidents in the future.
In his briefing, FRSC sector commander Franklin Agbakoba confirmed that the explosion was caused by brake failure, leading to the tanker overturning and spilling its contents.
He reported that 11 people had died, while several others were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.
Mr. Agbakoba praised Governor Mbah for his prompt response and his commitment to covering the medical costs of the injured.
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