Tragedy struck the Ometan-Okpe community in Okpe local government area of Delta state when a petroleum tanker exploded, claiming the lives of eight individuals.
Among the casualties were a breastfeeding mother and her three-month-old baby, who the mother was desperately trying to save from the flames.
Reports from the scene revealed that a 16-year-old girl and her mother, trapped in their home during the inferno, also perished in the incident.
The aftermath of the explosion left behind a devastating scene, with bodies of the victims covered with zinc and several buildings, including residential homes, an oil and gas complex, and makeshift structures, engulfed in flames.
It was a fuel-laden tanker that triggered the tragedy, erupting in flames and causing widespread destruction in the community.
The incident was a result of a mechanical failure in the tanker while it was in motion, ultimately leading to the catastrophic explosion at the crowded Ometan-Okpe junction.
Witnesses described the chaos and horror that ensued, attributing the disaster to the tanker driver’s reckless speeding.
Concerned sympathizers urged the state government to support the affected property owners who lost their homes and livelihoods in the tragic event.
Upon visiting the scene, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Ometan-Okpe community.
Joined by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly and the former Chairman of Okpe local government, Governor Oborevwori shared his sorrow over the unfortunate loss of lives and properties.
Reflecting on the distressing situation at the accident site, Governor Oborevwori extended his sympathies to the community and families affected by the heartbreaking incident.