2 die, 2 injured in Anambra tanker explosion

Two persons have been confirmed dead while two others sustained varying degrees of injuries after a tanker exploded at the Agu-Awka axis on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Anambra State.

It was gathered that the tanker loaded with diesel exploded when it collided with a truck carrying bags of animal feeds at about 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026.

Confirming the incident on Friday, the Chief Fire Officer of Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, said the injured victims were rushed to hospital for treatment.

Chiketa said the fire service promptly mobilised firefighters and equipment to the scene after receiving a distress call.

Chiketa disclosed that firefighters were still at the scene working to control the situation on Friday afternoon.

He said: “I want to commend the firefighters for their prompt response and I urged motorists and other road users to exercise extreme caution, particularly when approaching sloping areas and when driving behind or around trucks conveying petroleum products.

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“I also urge motorists to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained.

“There is the need for routine checks of critical components, especially the braking systems, to prevent accidents.”

Chiketa assured Awka residents that the situation had been brought under control, and advised them to be calm.