The aftermath of the devastating tanker explosion at the Ugwu Onyeama section of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway has risen to 21.
On Saturday, a petrol tanker erupted in flames, engulfing the area in chaos and tragedy. The explosion tragically claimed the lives of several individuals and left many others gravely injured. Initially, the Federal Road Safety Corps reported 18 fatalities as rescue efforts unfolded.
“A total of 31 people were caught in the horrific crash. Ten were rescued with varying degrees of injuries, while three escaped unharmed. Sadly, the 18 victims who perished were burned beyond recognition,” Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC national spokesperson, had revealed.
However, the grim news continued when Frank Agbakoba, the sector commander in Enugu, confirmed on Wednesday that three more victims succumbed to their injuries, escalating the death toll to 21.
“The deceased include two adult males and one adult female,” Agbakoba stated.
In the wake of the explosion, the injured were swiftly transported to three hospitals across the state: Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, commonly known as Park Lane; University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital; and the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu.
According to Agbakoba, in addition to the 18 who were tragically burned beyond recognition, a further 23 injured individuals were admitted to the hospitals. This group consisted of 15 adult females and eight adult males.
“Of the 23 injured, nine people – seven adult females and two adult males – have since been discharged, but tragically, three others passed away on Sunday,” he reported.
“Tomorrow (Thursday), we will visit the hospitals to check on additional discharges,” he added, as the community mourns the loss and hopes for the recovery of those still fighting for their lives.
