…As Anambra CP visits scene, appeal for calm
Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State has expressed his sympathy to the families of a woman and a child burnt to death yesterday in a fire accident in Onitsha.
The fire also razed structures, including shops, on Upper Iweka Road, Onitsha and at Ochanja market.
The accident occurred when a tanker laden with petroleum products, fell into a ditch and spilled its contents. A ball of fire resulted from this incident and quickly spread.
The Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Anambra State, Mr. C. Don Adinuba who confirmed the incident in a statement in Awka stated that men of the Anambra State Fire Service arrived on the scene in good time with their new equipment but for some reason, were unable to quench the inferno.
“The angry mob on the scene prevented other fire trucks, including one from neighbouring Asaba in Delta State, from getting to the scene”, he said.
“Governor Obiano regrets this unfortunate situation and has directed owners of properties affected by the tragic accident, including shop owners to report at Ekwueme Square on Friday October 18, 2019 to see how the Anambra State Government can assist them”, he further said.
The Commissioner added that a panel would be set up immediately to determine the cause of the accident, why the firemen could not put out the fire and how the condition of the victims can be ameliorated.
He disclosed that governor Obiano and his family prayed for the repose of the souls of the woman and child who died in the accident adding that the Anambra State Government would assist their families during their burial.
“Government calls on citizens especially those directly affected to remain calm in the face of this disaster as it will do all within its powers to ameliorate the suffering of those involved”, Adinuba stated.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police Anambra State, CP John Abang visited the scene for an on the spot assessment and appealed to the residents to remain calm.
Consequently, Police patrol teams have cordoned off the area to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage to loot.
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