Anambra church fire erupts after lorry crash in Agulu, causing panic and gridlock, though no casualties were recorded

Panic gripped worshippers and residents after a fully loaded lorry crashed into St. Matthias Catholic Church, triggering an Anambra church fire along the Agulu Lake–Golden Tulip Hotel Road in Anaocha Local Government Area.

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The incident, which occurred late Wednesday, caused widespread alarm and traffic gridlock as emergency responders battled to contain the flames.

Eyewitnesses said the truck was travelling at high speed before losing control on the sloping road and veering off course into the church premises, where it immediately caught fire.

One witness, who identified himself as Uzor, said the situation could have been worse but for the absence of people around the immediate vicinity at the time of the crash.

Emergency teams from the Anambra State Fire Service responded promptly and successfully extinguished the blaze, preventing further damage to nearby structures.

Confirming the incident, the Fire Service spokesperson, Chukwudi Chiketa, attributed the accident to speeding and loss of control, noting that firefighters contained the situation before it escalated.

He added that operations at the scene had been concluded and personnel safely withdrew after ensuring the fire was fully extinguished.

No casualties or injuries were recorded, although the driver of the lorry reportedly fled the scene immediately after the crash.

In a related development, the Fire Service also confirmed another fire outbreak at Climax Industry Limited in Idemili North Local Government Area.

According to Chukwudi Chiketa, the fire, which affected both company and residential structures, was brought under control following a coordinated response by firefighters from the Ogidi and Okpoko stations.

He said personnel remained on site for several hours to prevent a possible reignition, while investigations into the cause of the industrial fire are ongoing.

Authorities have urged residents and business owners to prioritise fire safety and promptly report emergencies to ensure swift intervention.

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The twin incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns around road use and fire hazards in Anambra State, even as emergency services continue to strengthen rapid response capabilities.