Five persons have been confirmed dead after a tanker carrying petroleum products burst into flames in Rivers State.
The devastating incident happened on Friday night along the Eleme axis of the East-West Road, which has long been neglected, increasing motorists’ risks.
Reports suggest that the tragedy was triggered when the tanker, navigating the dilapidated road, was hit by another heavy-duty vehicle, igniting flames and an explosion.
The ensuing inferno engulfed several other vehicles along the road, with occupants said to be trapped and unable to escape the fire, which spread rapidly.
The full extent of the damage caused by the inferno and the casualty figures remains unclear.
The Eleme axis of the East-West road has been notorious for its hazardous conditions, prompting repeated protests from concerned citizens demanding urgent repairs.
While the Federal Government recently initiated the rehabilitation of the road, the pace of work has been criticized as slow.
Channels/Oluwabusayo Oyinloye
