By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Fire Service has once again averted a potential inferno following the crash of a petrol-laden tanker along the Igboukwu–Uga Road in Aguata Local Government Area of the state.
According to a press statement issued by the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service, the distress call reporting the incident was received at about 0835 hours (8:35 a.m.). The tanker, which was fully loaded with premium motor spirit, reportedly suffered a brake failure while in motion, causing the driver to lose control.
It was gathered that in an attempt to stabilize the heavy-duty vehicle, the tanker reportedly toppled and began discharging large volumes of petrol onto the roadway, creating an extremely dangerous situation with a high risk of explosion and fire outbreak.
However, upon receiving the emergency alert, firefighters were immediately mobilized to the scene. Through their swift, professional and coordinated response, the fire crew effectively prevented what could have escalated into a devastating fire disaster.
During the ongoing transloading operation, the Fire Service team applied water mixed with foam compound around the accident scene to suppress heat and eliminate the risk of ignition. This strategic safety action ensured that the volatile fuel did not combust during the rescue and recovery process.
The Fire Service also successfully restrained members of the community who attempted to scoop the spilled petrol, thereby preventing possible casualties, severe burns and loss of lives that could have resulted from ignition or explosion.
It was gathered that the firefighters remained fully on ground with the fallen tanker throughout the transloading process to ensure complete safety compliance and avert any form of secondary outbreak. The operation was conducted under strict safety control, and no life was lost in the incident.
The Anambra State Fire Service, through its Media and Publicity Unit, once again reiterated its warning to members of the public against the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, noting that such acts often result in fatal fire disasters.
Residents and road users were further advised to promptly alert Fire Service authorities in emergency situations through the official emergency line: 08069654255, instead of attempting risky self-help actions.
This latest tanker incident adds to the list of fuel-related emergencies recorded across parts of Anambra State in recent time, including the fatal and destructive ones.
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