Firefighters Save Three Petrol Stations In Anambra

• As petrol tanker explodes in Awka

BY ONYEKACHUKWU IBEZIM – Firefighters were up to speed yesterday as they saved three petrol stations from being razed after a petrol tanker exploded at the popular Immigration Junction in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

Thankfully, the tanker driver and his conductor also escaped unhurt from the inferno which occurred around 6.50 am.

An eyewitness account indicated that the driver of the speeding tanker lost control and crashed while attempting to make a U-turn at the junction with the tanker suddenly going up in flames while the driver and conductor quickly disembarked before an explosion occurred

The Chief Fire Officer of Anambra State Fire Service, Martin Agbili, who confirmed the incident, said no life was lost in the inferno and expressed happiness that three petrol filling stations within the area were saved from the fire.

He said; “At about 0607hrs (6:07 am) of today Tuesday 15-11-2022, Anambra State Fire Service received a distress call of a fallen petrol tanker fire of 45,000litres capacity.  Immediately, our fearless and tireless Firefighters and firefighting truck arrived scene of the fire led by Fire Chief Agbili Martin Agility.

“There was no loss of life. The driver and conductor of the tanker could not be found and probably, and they were able to escape. The firefighting operation was very successful as we fought the fire to stand still.”

Also speaking on the incident, Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Adeoye Irelewuyi warned motorists to desist from over-speeding and observe recommended speed limits while on the highways.

According to him; “An unidentified driver of a tanker laden with oil with no registration number was involved in a minor road traffic crash at Immigration Junction by Awka-Enugu Expressway today 15th November 2022 at about 06:50hrs.

“Two male adults were involved in the crash. None was killed, and none was injured. Both occupants were rescued unhurt.”