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Eighteen people were killed in a tragic truck accident in southeastern Nigeria, authorities confirmed on Sunday, just a week after another petrol tanker explosion claimed 98 lives.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) reported that the crash, which occurred near the town of Enugu, involved 31 people in total. 10 individuals were rescued with varying degrees of injury, while three others escaped unharmed. Tragically, the victims who lost their lives were burned beyond recognition.
The tanker, which was carrying premium motor spirit, suffered a brake failure, causing the driver to lose control. The tanker subsequently collided with 17 other vehicles, triggering a deadly fire.
Enugu state governor Peter Mbah expressed his concern over the recurring accidents involving petrol tankers.
He urged the FRSC to enforce safety regulations, particularly the ban on tankers without anti-spill locks, to prevent future tragedies.
The incessant fuel tanker explosion has continued to raise public safety concerns across the country and it is the opinion of many that until decisive actions are taken by the authorities, some of the preventable loss of lives may continue.