Chaos Erupts as Tanker Overturns on Onitsha-Awka-Enugu Expressway

A tanker has overturned on the Onitsha-Awka-Enugu expressway, causing traffic gridlock and panic among commuters as authorities work to manage the situation.

A tanker with a capacity of 33,000 liters carrying automotive gas oil (diesel) overturned early Friday morning on the Onitsha-Awka-Enugu Expressway near the Army Gate in Onitsha, Anambra State, leading to significant traffic congestion.

The accident happened at approximately 7:05 a.m. when the tanker driver tried to turn into a filling station on the bustling expressway. According to witnesses, the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn and spill some of its diesel load before emergency services arrived.

In response, authorities closed off the lane heading to Awka and redirected vehicles to the Onitsha-bound lane. This diversion led to a major traffic jam extending from Army Gate all the way to the MCC area of the expressway.

Swift action by the Anambra State Fire Service averted what could have been a disaster. The firefighters promptly reached the scene and sprayed chemical foam on the affected area to minimize the chances of an explosion or fire outbreak. However, some residents were observed collecting spilled diesel from nearby gutters as security personnel faced challenges in controlling heavy traffic congestion.

Anambra State Fire Chief, Chukwudi Chiketa, confirmed the incident stating, “The event occurred around 7:00 a.m. Our firefighters have secured and taken control of the scene.”

Chiketa elaborated on the incident, stating, “While attempting to unload its contents at the filling station next to the Army Gate’s fence, the tanker unexpectedly began rolling backward. The owner mentioned that the driver had not engaged the handbrake. Before long, it started moving and as he attempted to jump out of harm’s way, he sustained a head injury. He was promptly taken to hospital for treatment. Thankfully, despite losing all of its cargo in this unfortunate event no lives were lost.”