Kogi Mourns Victims Of Fatal Tanker Explosion

The Kogi State Government has expressed deep grief over the tragic road accident in Okunchi Ward of Adavi Local Government Area, assuring affected families and residents of its full support in the aftermath of the disaster.

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

The devastating incident involved 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, leaving all occupants of the tanker burnt beyond recognition. A residential building and a mosque were also destroyed, although no lives were lost in those structures.

In a related development, a couple on a motorcycle was caught in the aftermath of 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 heartfelt 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, who had initially been in critical condition, later 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.

The visit underscored the state government’s commitment to standing by its citizens in times of crisis, while also highlighting the urgent need for caution on the roads, particularly involving heavy-duty vehicles.

Despite the pain and loss, the people of Okunchi expressed gratitude for the government’s prompt intervention and empathy, describing it as a source of comfort during a period of profound grief.