Massive Fire on Nigeria's East-West Road Incinerates Over 100 Vehicles, Causes Numerous Casualties

A devastating fuel tanker explosion and fire on the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State, Nigeria has incinerated between 100 to 300 vehicles, causing numerous casualties. The incident occurred late Friday night when a petrol-laden tanker collided with a heavy-duty truck, spilling its contents and bursting into flames. The fire quickly spread to a long stretch of vehicles caught in a traffic gridlock.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing multiple burned bodies and hearing cries for help from people trapped in their vehicles, unable to escape the inferno. "The victims were burned beyond recognition," said one witness. While the exact number of casualties remains unknown, police have confirmed at least five confirmed dead, including a pregnant woman.

The massive fire burned for several hours before being extinguished by multiple fire service trucks, with assistance from the nearby Indoroma Petrochemical company. The aftermath of the tragedy revealed a stretch of charred vehicles, with early estimates suggesting over 100 to 300 were consumed by the flames.

Why this matters: This devastating incident highlights the ongoing challenges of road safety and infrastructure in Nigeria. The poor state of the East-West Road and lack of alternative routes during construction have been blamed for exacerbating the gridlock and the scale of the tragedy.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara visited the scene, accompanied by the state commissioner of police and director of state security services. The governor acknowledged the road's poor condition and stated that the situation could have been avoided with more caution from motorists. He expressed his intention to compensate the victims and their families, and vowed to take steps to control the situation and provide support.

Key Takeaways

• Devastating fuel tanker explosion in Rivers, Nigeria killed at least 5, burned 100-300 vehicles.
• Incident occurred when tanker collided with truck, spilling fuel and causing massive fire.
• Victims were burned beyond recognition, including a pregnant woman.
• Poor road conditions and lack of alternative routes worsened the tragedy.
• Governor visited scene, promised compensation and steps to control the situation.