A devastating fire incident involving an oil tanker has claimed the lives of at least eight individuals in Ometan community, Okpe local government area, Delta State.
According to reports gathered by Media Talk Africa, the tragedy unfolded on Friday as the oil tanker, travelling from Effurun, lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle near the boundary bridge between Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene as the front part of the tanker detached from the rear compartment during motion, triggering a massive explosion. The resulting inferno engulfed all structures within the vicinity of the accident.
Tragically, some residents trapped in the affected buildings perished in the blaze.
State governor Sheriff Oborevwori, upon visiting the scene, extended his condolences to the grieving Ometan community and the families of the victims. Accompanied by dignitaries including the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, and the former chairman of Okpe local government area, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“It is a very sad situation,” Governor Oborevwori remarked. “I commiserate with the people of Ometan community and families of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident.”
This heartbreaking event comes just days after a similar tragedy in Rivers State, where a gas tanker explosion claimed numerous lives and caused extensive property damage.
