From CHARLES ONYEKWERE
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah has expressed sorrow over the tragic fuel tanker accident along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, which claimed 11 lives and left several others injured.
The Governor, during an on-the-spot assessment at the accident site, described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy.
He assured that the state government had already activated measures to ensure the victims received comprehensive medical attention while taking proactive steps to prevent future occurrences.
Mbah confirmed that preliminary investigations revealed the tanker, which was carrying Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, experienced brake failure and spilled its highly inflammable contents, leading to a devastating fire that caused multiple casualties.
The Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, law enforcement agencies and health officials are continuing investigations to determine the exact cause of the incident.
In his reaction, Mbah emphasised the importance of enforcing road safety regulations for tankers transporting inflammable substances.
He directed the state FRSC sector commander, Mr.Franklin Agbakoba, and the state Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Obi Ozor, to ensure that all tankers in the state are equipped with anti-spill locks to prevent fuel spills in the event of an accident.
“We are devastated by this tragedy, which has resulted in the loss of precious lives.
“I have instructed that survivors be moved to hospitals for urgent medical care. My Commissioner for Health, Special Adviser on Health, and the Chief Medical Director of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology Teaching Hospital, ESUTTH, Parklane, are all involved in providing maximum medical attention to the injured,” he said.
The governor also pledged that the state government would no longer wait for federal intervention to repair the dilapidated sections of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
He announced plans to undertake immediate repairs to prevent future accidents.
The FRSC sector commander confirmed that 11 people died at the scene, while injured survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
He commended the governor for his swift response and commitment to covering the medical expenses of the victims.
