Grief hangs heavy in Enugu State as the remains of four siblings, tragically killed during the January 5, 2025, tanker explosion at Ugwu Onyeama, are set to be laid to rest. The children, whose ages ranged between 8 and 16, were returning from a New Year church retreat when the fuel-laden tanker lost control and exploded along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
The explosion, which occurred at approximately 8:45 PM, claimed at least 13 lives and destroyed over 20 vehicles, including buses and motorcycles. The four siblings, identified as members of the Nwankwo family from Ngwo, were confirmed dead at the scene after being trapped in a commuter bus engulfed by the fireball.
According to eyewitness reports, the ill-fated tanker was descending the steep Ugwu Onyeama hill when its brakes reportedly failed. It slammed into multiple vehicles before overturning and igniting a massive blaze that lit up the evening sky for miles. First responders described the scene as “utter devastation.”
The funeral ceremony for the children will take place on Saturday, April 13, 2025, at their hometown in Udi Local Government Area. A wake-keep was held on Friday evening, drawing hundreds of mourners, including clergy, schoolmates, and members of the Enugu transport community, many of whom broke down in tears at the sight of the four white caskets.
The Nwankwo family, still reeling from the tragedy, has called for a government-led overhaul of tanker movement regulations in Enugu State. Their demand echoes a growing call across Southeast Nigeria for restricted fuel tanker movement hours and stricter mechanical checks, particularly on hilly roads like Ugwu Onyeama.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) had earlier issued a statement promising a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion. As of April, no official report has been made public. Civil society groups and road safety advocates continue to pressure state authorities to declare Ugwu Onyeama a hazard zone needing immediate structural and policy attention.
Saturday’s burial is expected to be attended by high-ranking officials of Enugu State, traditional leaders, and representatives of emergency agencies. For the grieving Nwankwo family and the larger Enugu community, it will be a day to mourn not just the loss of four young lives, but the continued silence around one of the most dangerous roads in the region.
