**Tragic Incident: Enugu Petrol Tanker Explosion Claims 11 Lives**
In a devastating turn of events, a petrol-laden tanker erupted in flames along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway on Saturday, leaving at least 11 individuals dead. The harrowing incident unfolded when the tanker, plagued by brake failure, careened off the road, spilling its volatile cargo before igniting into a catastrophic inferno.
**Governor’s Response and Action Plan**
Governor Peter Mbah swiftly responded to the tragedy, emphasizing the urgency of providing medical care to the injured and preventing future calamities. Expressing heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and injured, Governor Mbah vowed to implement stringent measures to enhance safety on the roads.
As Governor Mbah surveyed the somber scene firsthand, he underscored the need for immediate action. He directed key officials, including the Federal Road Safety Commission’s Sector Commander, Franklin Agbakoba, and the State Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, to enforce the installation of anti-spill locks on all tankers carrying flammable substances. These safety mechanisms are vital in preventing spillage during accidents, mitigating the risk of catastrophic explosions.
**Inquiry and Collaborative Efforts**
Amid the ongoing investigation to ascertain the root cause of the tragic event, Governor Mbah highlighted the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies. The police, in conjunction with other authorities, are diligently working to unravel the circumstances leading to the fatal incident.
The Governor emphasized the paramount importance of providing comprehensive medical care to the survivors. He mobilized a multi-agency response, involving the Commissioner for Health, the Chief Medical Director of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, and the Federal Road Safety Corps. Their collective focus is on ensuring that the injured receive optimal treatment and support during this challenging time.
**Proactive Measures and Road Safety Initiatives**
Acknowledging the critical need for preventative measures, Governor Mbah outlined plans to enforce stringent traffic regulations to avert future tragedies. In addition to advocating for the installation of anti-spill locks on tanker trucks, the government is poised to implement enhanced road safety protocols on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
Governor Mbah underscored the proactive stance of the state government, emphasizing the imperative of swift action. Rather than awaiting federal intervention, local authorities are taking proactive steps to address road infrastructure deficiencies promptly. By prioritizing road repairs and safety enhancements, the government aims to safeguard against the recurrence of such catastrophic incidents.
**FRSC Investigation Findings**
Providing valuable insights into the preliminary investigation, the Federal Road Safety Commission’s Sector Commander for Enugu shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tanker spill. The commander attributed the spillage to a brake failure, underscoring the critical role of vehicle maintenance and safety protocols in averting such tragic outcomes.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, Governor Mbah’s swift response and commitment to bolstering road safety measures offer a beacon of hope. Through collaborative efforts and proactive initiatives, Enugu strives to honor the memory of those lost and prevent future tragedies from befalling its citizens.
