Head of Media and Publicity at the Anambra State Fire Service Chukwudi Chiketa confirmed that an Anambra fuel tanker fully loaded with Premium Motor Spirit had overturned at Upper Iweka on the Onitsha-Owerri Road, blocking a lane and raising fears of fire among motorists and residents.

The 40-foot tanker left the carriageway late on Thursday 10 September 2026. Witnesses said the driver hit a damaged stretch of road, suffered a steering failure and lost control before the vehicle fell by the roadside. No death or injury was recorded.

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Authorities cordoned off the affected lane and diverted traffic while emergency crews worked to stop any ignition. Firefighters sprayed water around the tanker to dampen possible sources of flame.

Roadside traders and residents moved back from the scene. Motorists kept their distance because of the petrol load.

Chukwudi Chiketa said the service received a distress call and sent crews and equipment at once. “Preliminary assessment indicated that the incident was caused by a bad portion of the road,” he said. “Fire Service personnel immediately commenced salvage and withdrawal operations to secure the scene and facilitate the safe clearance of the roadway. The operations were successfully completed, and the incident was contained.”

He said the service would keep watch on the area and work with other agencies. “No injuries nor casualties recorded. Members of the public, especially the motorists are advised to remain vigilant and exercise caution around the affected area,” the statement added. The service listed 08069654255 for further information.

Upper Iweka is a busy junction on a major commercial route linking Onitsha and Owerri. Broken surfaces on that corridor have been blamed before for loss of control.

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The swift arrival of the fire service limited the risk from a full petrol load, though the blockage still delayed traffic until the wreck was secured and the road could be cleared.