Tanker crashes, spills content in Rivers

A tanker conveying crude oil crashed at Rumuosi Junction in Obio-Akpor Council of Rivers State on Wednesday, spilling its contents and causing panic among road users.

According to eyewitnesses, the tanker skidded off the road while attempting to navigate the roundabout under the Rumuosi flyover.

The impact of the crash caused the tanker to spill its contents, which flowed into the gutter.

At the scene of the incident, military personnel from the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army were quickly deployed, preventing vehicular movement and securing the area.
It was gathered that a military personnel member, who was said to be in the front cabin of the tanker, was rescued, and no casualties were recorded.

Additionally, a fire service tanker was stationed at the scene to prevent any potential fire outbreak.
Road vendors and passersby fled in panic, fearing an explosion.

“We were selling our wares when we heard a loud crash. We immediately fled the scene, fearing that the tanker might explode,” said one of the vendors.

An eyewitness, who identified himself as Joseph, described the scene: “When the vehicle was about to fall, the Army man was pressed by the weight of the vehicle, but he was rescued almost immediately. He fainted and seemed unconscious.”

Another eyewitness lamented the sharp bend under the flyover, noting that similar incidents have occurred multiple times since January.

He said: “A few days ago, a traveling bus almost ran into those selling just under the flyover. The bend under the flyover is too sharp. Last week, a tanker also fell at almost the same spot where this one crashed.”

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of road users and the need for improved infrastructure in the area. Residents have called on the authorities to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The section of the road where the accident occurred has been barricaded, with vehicles seeking alternative routes.

Military personnel and fire service officials remain on the scene, ensuring that the situation is under control.