Sorrow in Ebonyi as Entire Family Perishes in Enugu Tanker Explosion

The incident occurred on January 25, 2025, as the family was returning from Anambra State for the burial of their patriarch, Chief Augustine Nwaji.

Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by the First Lady, Mrs. Uzoamaka Nwifuru, led a delegation to Abofia village in Ebonyi Local Government Area to commiserate with the bereaved family. The deceased included a father, mother, six children, two younger brothers, an apprentice, and a housemaid.

Mrs. Nwifuru conveyed the government’s condolences, stating, “This tragedy is deeply painful, and we share in the sorrow of the Nwaji family. Losing multiple family members in such a horrific manner is beyond comprehension. As a government, we stand with you in this time of grief and assure you of our unwavering support.”

Accompanying the First Lady were the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Chairman of Ebonyi Local Government Area, Mr. Chinedu Uburu, and the Chief of Staff, Government House, Professor Emmanuel Echiegu. They reassured the family of the government’s commitment to providing necessary support during this difficult period.

In response, Mr. Ikechukwu Nwaji, a grieving family member, urged the government to enforce regulations mandating that heavy-duty vehicles operate primarily at night to prevent such devastating accidents. He expressed gratitude for the government’s visit and support, requesting continued prayers as they mourn their loved ones.

The Ebonyi State Government reiterated its resolve to stand by the Nwaji family and the entire Abofia Agbaja community in their time of sorrow. This incident highlights the pressing need for stringent safety measures and regulations concerning the operation of heavy-duty vehicles to prevent future tragedies.

The tragic event has also drawn attention to the broader issue of road safety in Nigeria. In recent times, there have been multiple incidents involving tanker explosions leading to significant loss of life and property. These occurrences underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to enhance road safety and prevent such disasters in the future.

The government and relevant stakeholders are called upon to implement and enforce stricter regulations on the movement of heavy-duty vehicles, ensure regular maintenance of road infrastructure, and promote public awareness campaigns on road safety. Such measures are essential to safeguard lives and prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents.