A devastating incident occurred at the Obiri-Ikwerre flyover along the East-West Road on the outskirts of Port Harcourt in Rivers State, resulting in the loss of two lives. Eyewitnesses reported that a tanker suspected to be carrying Liquefied Natural Gas overturned around 9:25 am, causing a massive explosion that engulfed a nearby salon car with two occupants trapped inside.
This tragic event comes just a month after a similar tanker explosion along the Eleme axis of the East-West Road, which claimed five lives and destroyed over 60 vehicles. According to witnesses, the sound of the explosion reverberated through nearby residential areas, sparking panic among residents.
Describing the scene, eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying sight of the car occupants being trapped and subsequently consumed by the flames. The flyover where the incident occurred serves as a crucial route leading to the Port Harcourt International Airport in Omagwa, Ikwerre local government area.
Further adding to the chaos, motorists scrambled to avoid the scene, with some even capturing videos of the blazing inferno on their phones. Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the tragic incident and the loss of two lives. While the fire has been extinguished, authorities urge caution as residual gas poses a lingering threat in the area.
As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, motorists are advised to seek alternative routes to prevent further casualties. The community mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of yet another devastating tanker explosion.