By Daniel Akinte
In the aftermath of a devastating tanker explosion on the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State on Friday night, officials are grappling with the aftermath of the tragedy.Â
The explosion, which occurred amidst heavy traffic, resulted in a significant loss of life and property. According to reports, five individuals lost their lives, and over 70 vehicles were engulfed in flames.
The news of the explosion has prompted an outpouring of grief and sympathy on social media platforms.Â
Individuals like Charles Maureen expressed shock and sorrow, lamenting the grim reality of the situation. “Jesus Christ, imagine the screams, what bad news is this today abeg,” Maureen wrote.
Others, like Joy Oluchi Kanu, conveyed their sorrow with emotive expressions, adding to the collective sense of mourning. “So disheartening God come for our rescue,” Kanu wrote, accompanied by crying emojis.
Calls for action have also emerged, with some social media users urging the government to implement stricter regulations regarding fuel transportation.Â
Esiri Ernest advocated for restrictions on daytime fuel carriage, citing concerns over driver negligence. “It’s time the government bound trucks carrying fuel or diesel to be moving in cities during the day,” Ernest suggested. “Because most of the drivers are very careless, they should be using the night to offload their products, it’s better and safer.”
Amidst the expressions of grief and calls for action, individuals like Dafe Nelson turned to prayer, seeking divine intervention in the wake of the tragedy. “God please have mercy… the road is bad,” Nelson pleaded.
For many, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by communities along the East-West Road and the urgent need for improved infrastructure and safety measures. Jackson Momodu described it as a “National disaster,” while Sheldon Joseph characterized it as “pathetic.”
