A potential disaster was narrowly averted in Port Harcourt when a tanker carrying petroleum products overturned near the Nkpogu Roundabout along Elekahia Road.
The Rivers State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service responded swiftly, containing the spill and preventing ignition.
The tanker fell on its side, releasing highly flammable fuel onto a busy corridor linking Elekahia to the industrial hub of Trans-Amadi, raising fears of a large-scale fire.
Firefighters quickly dispersed fuel vapours, secured the tanker, and received support from residents and police who diverted traffic and prevented bystanders from scooping the fuel.
An international oil company stationed an ambulance nearby as a precaution, underscoring the high risk associated with petroleum tanker accidents in the city.
Recent federal and state investments have improved fire response capacity, with upgraded fire stations and equipment across the state, notably at Isaac Boro Park, Borokiri, and Rumuodomaya.
The rapid and coordinated intervention averted what could have been another tragic fire incident in a city previously affected by tanker-related disasters.
