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Tragic Petrol Tanker Explosion Five Feared Dead.
A tragic petrol tanker explosion in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State, has reportedly claimed the lives of five individuals and left significant property damage in its wake. The devastating incident occurred on Sunday, along the Old Asaba-Lagos road, engulfing several structures and vehicles in flames.
Details of the Incident
According to the Delta State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bright Edafe, the fire broke out after a petrol-laden tanker overturned near First Bank in Agbor. The tanker reportedly burst into flames upon impact, destroying four houses, including an Anglican Church, and two vehicles parked in the vicinity.
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The inferno also consumed the First Bank and Access Bank buildings situated close to the accident site. Witnesses described the scene as catastrophic, with victims caught in the path of the fire unable to escape its intensity.
| Key Details of the Incident | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Agbor, Delta State |
| Date | Sunday, January 2025 |
| Casualties | Five feared dead |
| Properties Affected | Four houses, two vehicles, First Bank, and Access Bank |
| Cause | Tanker overturned while making a turn |
Eyewitness Accounts and Reactions
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying moment the petrol tanker overturned while attempting to navigate a turn. A local resident shared:
“The tanker fell near First Bank, and moments later, the fire erupted. The flames quickly spread to nearby structures, leaving devastation in its path.”
Another source highlighted the absence of immediate firefighting efforts, expressing frustration over the delay in emergency response. “As of now, we have not seen firefighters on the scene, and the fire is still raging,” the source stated.
| Response Efforts | Status |
|---|---|
| Firefighting Response | Delayed |
| Police Confirmation | Incident verified by Mr. Bright Edafe |
| Community Reaction | Shock and devastation |
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The explosion has left the Agbor community in grief, with families mourning their losses and property owners counting the cost of the destruction. Concerns have been raised about safety measures for petrol tankers and the readiness of emergency services to handle such crises.
A Call for Safety Measures
The tragic incident in Agbor underscores the urgent need for stricter safety regulations for fuel transportation and improved emergency response systems. As investigations continue, the affected community hopes for swift action to prevent future occurrences and alleviate the suffering caused by this disaster.
