Fuel Tanker Falls, Blocks Anambra Road
There was panic along the Onitsha-Owerri Road at Upper Iweka after a 40ft tanker fully loaded with Premium Motor Spirit fell by the roadside, obstructing traffic and raising fears of an explosion among motorists and residents in the area.
The incident, which occurred late on Thursday, was reportedly caused by a bad portion of the road, which led to a steering system failure that made the tanker lose control and overturn.
Although no casualty was recorded, it was gathered that the incident caused a traffic obstruction, forcing authorities to cordon off the affected lane and divert traffic as emergency responders moved to the scene to prevent a possible fire outbreak.
Men of the Anambra State Fire Service were immediately deployed to the scene and were seen spraying water around the tanker to neutralise any ignition source.
Some eyewitnesses near the scene said the driver, while navigating the bad portion of the road, experienced a steering system failure and lost control of the vehicle before it fell off the road.
“The development created panic and obstruction on the road as residents and roadside traders near the scene quickly distanced themselves while motorists avoided coming close for fear of a fire explosion or any related emergency.
“Men of the Anambra State Firefighters later arrived the scene and started spraying water around the tanker to neutralise any ignition,” one of the eyewitnesses who spoke to our correspondent recounted.
The Head of Media and Publicity, Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, confirmed the incident in a statement on Friday, saying that the fire service promptly mobilised firefighters and firefighting equipment to the scene to prevent any related emergency.
Chiketa said, “The Anambra State Fire Service wishes to inform the public that a tanker fell at Upper Iweka, Onitsha, on Thursday, 11th September, 2026. The Fire Service received the distress call, and firefighters were swiftly deployed to the scene of the accident.
“Preliminary assessment indicated that the incident was caused by a bad portion of the road.
“Fire Service personnel immediately commenced salvage and withdrawal operations to secure the scene and facilitate the safe clearance of the roadway.
“The operations were successfully completed, and the incident was contained.”
He added that the Anambra State Fire Service would continue to monitor the area and work with relevant authorities to ensure safety and prevent further hazards.
“No injuries nor casualties recorded. Members of the public, especially the motorists are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution around the affected area. For further information, the Anambra State Fire Service on 08069654255,” the statement added.
