Fatal Truck Collision Ignites Fire, Claims Two Lives on Anambra Expressway

A tragic road accident on the Awka-Enugu Expressway in Anambra State, near Jezco Filling Station, resulted in two fatalities and left two other individuals with various injuries. The late-night incident, which happened on Thursday, led to significant traffic congestion as the wreckage obstructed a substantial part of the highway, leaving minimal room for vehicles to pass.

According to accounts from those who witnessed the event, two commercial trucks were involved, carrying a total of four male adults. An eyewitness detailed the sequence, stating, “A total of four persons were involved in the crash, all male adults. Unfortunately, two male adults were killed in the accident, and two other male adults sustained various degrees of injury.” The incident, which occurred around 11:47 pm on Thursday, created immense traffic jams due to the road being partially closed off for ongoing construction. The witness further explained that one of the trucks, moving at considerable speed, suddenly braked. Subsequently, a tanker truck following closely behind collided with its rear, causing extensive damage. The force of the impact crushed the lead truck, triggering a fire that culminated in an explosion.

Confirming the unfortunate event, Margaret Onabe, the Sector Public Education Officer for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Anambra Sector Command, issued a statement on Friday. Onabe specified that the collision involved two commercial trucks: a Mercedes 911 truck and a Mark Tanker truck operated by Shafa Energy. Neither vehicle possessed a visible registration number.

Onabe reiterated the casualty count, stating, “A total of four persons were involved in the crash – all male adults. Unfortunately, two male adults were killed in the incident, and two other male adults sustained various degrees of injury.” She added that before the FRSC rescue team arrived, benevolent individuals had transported the injured to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital in Amaku, Awka. Investigations were still underway to retrieve the remains of the deceased, who were reportedly trapped and severely burnt.

The FRSC official noted that the weather conditions were dark at the time of the collision, and the road surface was asphalt. She identified “Speed Violation and Loss of Control” as the likely factors contributing to the tragic incident.

The FRSC’s rapid response team was dispatched and arrived at the scene within 10 minutes, where they commenced traffic management to facilitate vehicle movement. Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, the Sector Commander for Anambra Sector Command, extended her condolences to the bereaved families. She issued a stern warning to drivers, urging them to refrain from excessive speeding, particularly in areas undergoing construction, and to strictly adhere to traffic laws. Furthermore, Commander Asekhauno appealed to the appropriate government bodies to expedite the construction on the alternate lane and make it accessible to prevent the hazardous practice of two-way traffic on a single lane. The FRSC affirmed its dedication to enhancing road safety for all users, reminding the public to dial their toll-free emergency line, 122, when needed.