Chaos as tanker overturns on Onitsha-Awka-Enugu expressway

A 33,000-litre tanker transporting automotive gas oil (diesel) overturned early Friday morning along the Onitsha-Awka-Enugu Expressway near the Army Gate in Onitsha, Anambra State, causing severe traffic congestion.

The accident occurred around 7:05 a.m. as the tanker driver attempted to turn into a filling station along the busy expressway. Witnesses reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle, leading to the tanker toppling and spilling part of its diesel load before emergency services arrived.

In response, authorities cordoned off the Awka-bound lane, diverting vehicles to the Onitsha-bound lane, which resulted in a significant traffic jam stretching from the Army Gate to the MCC area of the expressway.

Prompt intervention by the Anambra State Fire Service prevented a potential disaster. Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene, spraying the affected area with chemical foam to reduce the risk of an explosion or fire outbreak. Despite their efforts, some residents were seen scooping the spilled diesel from nearby gutters, while security personnel struggled to manage the heavy traffic flow.

Confirming the incident, Anambra State Fire Chief Chukwudi Chiketa said, “The incident happened at about 7:00 a.m. Firefighters have cordoned off and taken control of the scene.”

Providing further details, Chiketa explained, “The tanker was trying to discharge its content at the filling station beside the Army Gate’s fence when it suddenly started rolling backwards. The driver, according to the owner, didn’t engage the handbrake. Before you know it, it started to roll, and the driver who tried to jump out sustained a head injury. He was immediately rushed to the hospital for medical attention. The whole content was emptied. We thank God that no life was lost in the process.”