A devastating accident occurred on Wednesday evening in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) near Nyanya Bridge, Abuja, as a tanker explosion claimed lives and caused widespread destruction. The incident, which has left local hospitals overwhelmed with victims, is being described as one of the most harrowing accidents in recent memory.
The FCT Police Command confirmed the tragic accident after receiving a distress call from the Karu Division. According to SP Josephine Adeh, the FCTÂ Police spokes person, the disaster was triggered when a Dangote cement-laden trailer, approaching Nyanya Bridge from AYA, lost control. The heavy vehicle crashed into stationary cars trapped in traffic, resulting in a catastrophic chain reaction.
The collision caused a massive fire that engulfed 14 vehicles, with thick smoke and intense heat filling the air.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing panic-stricken motorists and pedestrians scrambling for safety as flames spread rapidly. Emergency responders, including fire service personnel, rushed to the scene, working tirelessly to rescue those trapped inside the vehicles.
Although eyewitnesses reported seeing more than 10 individuals perish in the inferno, the police confirmed that six victims were extracted from the wreckage and rushed to nearby hospitals. Tragically, they were later declared dead by medical personnel. The bodies were transported to the Karu General Hospital Morgue.
The swift response by police operatives, fire service teams, and other emergency responders helped contain the fire and restore normal traffic flow. However, the emotional toll of the incident continues to reverberate throughout the city.
The aftermath of the explosion has overwhelmed local hospitals, with victims being treated at both the National Hospital and Asokoro Hospital. Many injured individuals are currently receiving urgent care for burns and other injuries sustained during the explosion.
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by heavy vehicles on busy roads. The loss of life and the devastation left in the wake of the explosion have left the Abuja community in mourning. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing, and officials have vowed to take steps to prevent future occurrences.
