Two Die, Two Injured in Anambra Tanker Fire Explosion

Two persons have died while two others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a tanker fire explosion along the Agu-Awka axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka, Anambra State.

The incident occurred on Thursday night in front of Jezco Fuel Station, Agu-Awka, and involved a fully loaded diesel tanker belonging to Shafa Filling Station and a 911 truck carrying bags of animal feed.

The diesel tanker reportedly suffered brake failure and collided with the 911 truck, triggering a fire outbreak.

Confirming the incident, the Chief Fire Officer of the Anambra State Fire Service, Engr. Chiketa Chukwudi, said two people lost their lives while two others who sustained injuries were rescued and taken to a hospital for medical attention.

Chiketa, who was personally present at the scene, said the incident occurred at about 11:26 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, adding that firefighters were promptly mobilised to the scene after the accident was reported.

He said, “The Anambra State Fire Service has responded to a serious road traffic accident involving a fully loaded diesel tanker belonging to Shafa Filling Station and a 911 truck loaded with bags of feed along the Agu-Awka axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Awka.

“The incident occurred in front of Jezco Fuel Station, Agu-Awka, at 2326 hours on Thursday, 20th August, 2026, and was reported to the Anambra State Fire Service, which promptly mobilised its firefighters and firefighting equipment to the scene.

“Preliminary information indicates that the accident occurred when the diesel truck reportedly suffered brake failure and collided with the 911 truck, resulting in a fire outbreak.

“Sadly, two people lost their lives in the incident, while two others who sustained varying degrees of injuries were rescued and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.”

The fire chief said firefighters remained at the scene to control the situation and prevent further escalation, assuring residents that the incident had been brought under control.

He commended the firefighters for their prompt response and urged motorists and other road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly when approaching sloping areas and when driving vehicles carrying petroleum products.

Chiketa also advised motorists to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained, stressing the need for routine checks of critical components, particularly braking systems, to prevent avoidable accidents.

He urged members of the public to remain calm and go about their normal activities, assuring them that the situation was under control.