At least eight individuals have tragically lost their lives in a fire accident involving an oil tanker in Ometan community, located in the Okpe local government area of Delta State. The incident, which occurred on Friday, happened when the tanker, traveling from Effurun, allegedly lost control while overtaking another truck near the boundary bridge between Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Area.
Witnesses reported that the front portion of the tanker separated suddenly from the rear while in motion, resulting in an explosion that engulfed all structures within the accident vicinity. Some residents trapped in nearby buildings also perished in the flames.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori visited the site to express condolences to the Ometan community and the victims’ families. He, alongside the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, and the former chairman of Okpe local government area, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. The governor noted the gravity of the situation and empathized with those affected by the tragic event.
This incident follows closely on the heels of a gas tanker explosion that claimed numerous lives and caused extensive damage to properties in Rivers State, just four days prior.
