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A tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) exploded in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State, killing one person and destroying no fewer than six shops.
The incident occurred late on Friday along Udoji Road, Ozubulu, close to the Ekwusigo LGA Secretariat, after the tanker reportedly collided with a car and a tricycle, spilling its contents and triggering a massive fire.
Residents and eyewitnesses told PUNCH Online on Sunday that the collision caused a loud explosion, which immediately engulfed the tanker and spread rapidly to adjoining shops.
“The tanker hit a car and a tricycle, spilled its contents and then exploded. One person was burnt to death instantly. Some passengers in the tricycle sustained severe burns and were rushed to the hospital. Several shops were already on fire before the firefighters arrived,” an eyewitness said.
The inferno, which raged for hours, caused panic and heavy traffic gridlock as motorists and pedestrians fled the area.
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps diverted traffic to alternative routes to prevent casualties.
Emergency responders said the fire would have escalated further but for the timely intervention of firefighters.
Confirming the incident via a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Sunday, the Head of Media and Publicity, Anambra State Fire Service, Chukwudi Chiketa, said three fire trucks were immediately dispatched to the scene after a distress call was received.
He added that one life was lost in the incident and about six shops were affected.
He said, “Anambra State Fire Service, on November 21, 2025, at 17:45hrs, received a distress call reporting a fire outbreak involving a tanker laden with Premium Motor Spirit at Udoji Road, Ozubulu, near the Ekwusigo Local Government Secretariat.
“The tanker had collided with a car and a tricycle, resulting in a severe fire outbreak. Upon receiving the call, the Anambra State Fire Service immediately deployed three firefighting trucks to the scene.
“The gallant firefighters responded promptly and, through their expertise and professionalism, successfully extinguished the fire, preventing further spread and minimising damage to surrounding properties. Sadly, one life was lost, and approximately six shops were affected by the fire.”
The latest tragedy adds to the growing list of fire disasters in Anambra.
PUNCH Online had in March 2025, reported that about nine shops along Ziks Avenue, Fegge, Onitsha, were destroyed by fire caused by a power surge, with goods worth millions of naira lost.
