Tanker overturns on Rivers bridge, spills content

Chukwudi Akasike and Sampson Itode, Port Harcourt

A fuel tanker conveying kerosene on Thursday overturned on the Obiri-Ikwerre bridge along the East-West Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The tanker, which was said to be conveying about 33,000 litres, had lost control on top of the bridge before its tank pulled out from the vehicle’s head, spilling its contents on the road.

An eyewitness said that residents in the area brought out cans and scooped the product without minding the danger their action portends.

The source explained that the situation caused heavy traffic in the area, as drivers were afraid of driving close to the spill for fear of explosion.

The source said, “The tanker was trying to navigate the Obiri-Ikwerre flyover bend when we heard a bang.

“Before we knew it, the tank of the vehicle pulled out from the head of the vehicle and turned upside-down and started spilling its product into the drainage.

“People just came out from their houses and began scooping, which is very dangerous. We were afraid that an explosion will happen. Motorists were afraid of moving close.’

When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Omoni, confirmed the incident but added that no life was lost during the lone accident involving a tanker.

Omoni disclosed that contrary to claims in some quarters that the tanker was conveying petrol, the content of the vehicle was kerosene.

He, however, urged members of the public not to panic as the State Police Command had called on relevant authorities to remove the fallen tanker from the road.