At least two persons have been reported dead after a fuel-laden tanker exploded at the Building Material Market in Ogidi (near Onitsha) in the Idemmili Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The PUNCH reports that several people sustained injuries in the inferno that gutted more than 14 buses and destroyed properties worth millions on Sunday night.
Further reports revealed that the explosion occurred after the tanker conveying inflammable content fell into a ditch and spilled its content.
A resident of the area, Izichukwu Chima, who claimed to be at the scene said the tanker was stationed when another articulated vehicle rammed into it after losing control.
He said, “Several luxury buses parked around the area immediately went up in flames. Shops and buildings within the area were also not left out. The fire was too much that it was difficult for fire service personnel to battle with.
“Several people were wounded in the accident. I saw the security people carry two dead bodies into a Hilux truck. Many buses, shops and other buildings were gutted.
Confirming the incident, the Chief Fire Service Officer in the State, Martin Agbili said, “Two persons have been confirmed dead while 14 buses and other properties were lost to the inferno.
“There are those injured but I cannot ascertain their fate.
“The fire could have escalated to other parts of the area if not for the quick arrival of my men and assistance from other stations, including the one inside the market.
“Immediately we were alerted, I deployed my men who stormed the scene with five fire trucks to battle the fire which lasted for several hours.
“The buses affected in the incident were those within the area. We thank God we were able to contain the fire.
The state Police Public Relations Office, Ikenga Tochukwu also confirmed the incident.
He said “our men have cordoned off the area presently, to avoid hoodlums taking advantage of the fire to loot.”
