Fuel tanker explosion at the Building Material Market in Ogidi, near Onitsha, in the Idemili Local Government Area of Anambra State killed two persons and injured several others.
It was gathered that the incident occurred on Sunday when the tanker, loaded with inflammable content, fell into a ditch and spilled its content, which started the fire.
No fewer than 14 buses and other property were also burnt in the fire incident.
According to an eyewitness, Izichukwu Chima, the tanker was parked by the roadside when another articulated vehicle rammed into it following loss of control.
“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 it.
“Several people were injured in the accident. I saw the security people carry two dead bodies into a Hilux truck. Many buses, shops and other buildings were gutted,” he said.
The Chief Fire Service Officer of the state, Martin Agbili, who confirmed the incident said, “two persons have been confirmed dead, while 14 buses and other property were lost to the inferno. There were those who were injured, but I cannot ascertain their fate as of now.
“The fire would 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.”
The state Police Public Relations Office, Ikenga Tochukwu, also confirmed the incident.
He said, “Our men have cordoned off the area to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the fire to loot.”