A devastating tanker explosion occurred at the Obiri-Ikwerre flyover along the East-West Road on the outskirts of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, resulting in the loss of two lives.
The incident happened at approximately 9:25 am when the tanker, suspected to be carrying Liquefied Natural Gas, upturned while navigating the bypass at the flyover and burst into flames. A salon car with two occupants was crushed and burnt beyond recognition.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrific, with one stating, “It was a terrible sight. Two persons inside a salon car parked nearby were burnt beyond recognition.”
The explosion caused widespread panic, with residents in nearby areas reporting hearing the blast. Another eyewitness said, “I was driving towards the University of Port Harcourt when I saw the flames. I quickly made a u-turn and many vehicles started making a detour to avoid the scene of the fire.”
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident and casualty figure. Spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko stated, “Yes, I can confirm that two persons died in the tanker fire. The fire has been put out, but the area is still dangerous due to the lingering gas. Motorists are advised to take alternative routes to avoid further casualties. The investigation is ongoing.”
