- Ogun Tanker Fire Claims Life of Mother of Four, Mercy Emmanuel
- Nursing Mother Hospitalized with Severe Injuries
- Tanker Overturned and Exploded on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
- Governor Dapo Abiodun Extends Condolences to Victims
- Families Affected by Fire Seek Government Assistance
Tragedy struck in Ogun State as a mother of four, Mercy Emmanuel, succumbed to severe burns sustained in last Wednesday’s tanker fire incident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. A nursing mother who attempted to rescue her children from the fire is currently hospitalized with severe injuries.
Details of the Incident
The petrol-laden tanker overturned at midnight in front of a commercial bank in the Ibafo section of the expressway, causing a massive fire that spread to nearby buildings. Eyewitnesses attributed the accident to the driver falling asleep at the wheel.
Consequences of the Fire
The fire impacted the surrounding community, damaging buildings, shattering windows, and cracking walls. Mercy Emmanuel’s husband, Ismail, recounted how his wife fell into a drainage system engulfed in flames while attempting to escape.
Hospitalization and Financial Struggles
Ismail took his wife to multiple hospitals, including ones in Sagamu, Abeokuta, and Lagos, where he was asked to make an unaffordable N6m deposit. Eventually, Mercy succumbed to her injuries at Gbagada General Hospital.
Another Victim Hospitalized
A resident, Bidemi, reported that a nursing mother, known as Iya Ada, was hospitalized after suffering severe burns while rescuing her children from the fire. The family’s household items, including chairs and curtains, were destroyed.
Government Response
Governor Dapo Abiodun has extended condolences to the victims and urged tanker drivers to exercise caution on the highway. Families affected by the fire are seeking government assistance, having lost vehicles and livelihoods.
Call for Support
The families of the victims are appealing for help to overcome their losses. The community is still reeling from the devastating consequences of the tanker fire incident.
