Kogi Govt Pledges Support For Tanker Explosion Victims

The Kogi State government has expressed grief over the recent road accident in Okunchi Ward of Adavi local government area, assuring affected families and residents of its full support.

A government delegation led by the state project coordinator of the Kogi AGILE, Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Oricha, visited the community on behalf of Governor Ahmed Ododo to assess the situation and deliver condolences.

The incident was a head-on collision between a diesel-laden tanker and a truck belonging to BUA Cement which sparked a massive inferno.

The fire engulfed both vehicles and spread to nearby structures, burning all occupants of the tanker beyond recognition. A residential building and a mosque were also destroyed, although no lives were lost in those structures.

A couple on a motorcycle was caught in the  accident due to diesel spillage.

The husband reportedly died instantly after losing control of the bike, while his wife sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment.

Community leaders, including the ward councillor and local government representatives received the delegation at the scene.

They commended the swift response of the state government, particularly the deployment of heavy-duty equipment that helped evacuate the wreckage and contain the situation.

They also noted that ongoing road construction in the area helped reduce the scale of the disaster.

Delivering the Governor’s message, Oricha described the incident as a painful loss to both the affected families and the entire state.

He conveyed the government’s condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to improving road infrastructure and strengthening safety measures to prevent future occurrences.

The delegation also visited victims at the hospital, where the impact of the tragedy was further evident.

The driver of the cement truck died from his injuries, while the co-driver survived with injuries sustained during rescue efforts.

The injured wife of the deceased motorcyclist was also seen receiving medical care.

Speaking during the hospital visit, the Adavi LGA APC chairmanship candidate for the forthcoming council elections commended the government’s compassion and support, offering prayers for the recovery of the injured and strength for bereaved families.

He also praised the efforts of medical personnel and urged them to sustain quality care for the victims.