Mother, 3-month-old baby die as petrol tanker explosion claims eight lives in Delta
A tragic incident along the Effurun-Sapele Road in Delta State claimed the lives of eight individuals, including a breastfeeding mother and her three-month-old baby, in a devastating petrol tanker explosion on Friday. The explosion occurred at the Ometan-Okpe community, near the bustling Ometan-Okpe junction, marking a somber day for the region.
According to reports, the explosion, which occurred around 10 am, was triggered by a fuel-laden tanker experiencing a mechanical fault while in motion. The resulting blast engulfed nearby buildings and properties in a raging inferno, leaving destruction in its wake.
Eyewitnesses recounted the heartbreaking scene as the young mother bravely attempted to rescue her infant from the engulfing flames, ultimately losing her life in the process.
Among the victims were a 16-year-old secondary schoolgirl and her mother, who were tragically trapped in their apartment at the time of the explosion.
Allegations have surfaced pointing fingers at the tanker driver, with claims of overspeeding contributing to the catastrophic event. Concerned voices have called upon the Delta State Government for assistance to property owners who suffered losses in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The devastation left several residential buildings, an oil and gas company complex, and makeshift structures razed to the ground.
The aftermath of the explosion revealed a grim toll, with seven residential buildings reduced to ashes, alongside the loss of vehicles and heavy-duty trucks caught in the blaze. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, efforts to support and rebuild the affected areas are paramount.
