There was panic at St. Matthias Catholic Church in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, after a fully loaded lorry crashed into the building and immediately caught fire late on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred along the Agulu Lake–Golden Tulip Hotel Road, causing gridlock as rescue efforts were made to contain the blaze.
A witness who gave his name simply as Uzor told our correspondent that the lorry was speeding when it veered off the sloppy road, crashed through the church fence, and ignited a fire.
“The lorry was on full speed and veered off the sloppy road, thereby crashing into the church building and immediately igniting fire. There was no casualty as some people who initially gathered around the vicinity had already dispersed before the incident occurred,” Uzor said.
He added that the incident caused panic and traffic congestion as first responders worked to quench the fire before the arrival of fire service personnel.
No lives were lost and no injuries were recorded, but the driver of the truck reportedly fled the scene immediately after the crash.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Media and Publicity Unit of the Anambra State Fire Service, led by Chukwudi Chiketa, attributed the accident to speeding and loss of control.
“A fire incident occurred yesterday at St. Matthias Catholic Church, Agulu, along Agulu Lake–Golden Tulip Hotel Road, following a road accident involving a heavy-duty lorry. Preliminary findings indicate that the lorry lost control, veered off the road, and crashed into the church premises, subsequently igniting a fire outbreak,” Chiketa said.
He stated that firefighters responded promptly to the distress call and successfully brought the situation under control, preventing further escalation before safely withdrawing from the scene.
Chiketa also disclosed that a separate fire incident occurred at Climax Industry Limited on Nnanka Street, Oduma Layout, Obosi, in Idemili North Local Government Area.
The distress call was received at about 1 a.m. on Wednesday, prompting firefighters from both Ogidi and Okpoko Fire Stations to mobilise to the scene.
“The affected property comprises both company and residential structures. Through coordinated efforts and professionalism, the fire was successfully brought under control, preventing further spread to nearby buildings,” Chiketa said.
Firefighters remained on ground until 5:30 a.m. to ensure complete extinguishment and eliminate any possibility of reignition. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained as investigations continue.
Chiketa urged residents and business owners to remain vigilant and promptly contact the nearest fire station in the event of any fire outbreak, stressing that early reporting saves lives and property.
