Brake Failure Causes Fatal Accident in Warri
A heartbreaking tragedy struck in Delta State as a speeding petrol tanker lost control, killing a woman and her young child while also leaving several others injured.
The accident, which occurred on the evening of March 28, 2025, took place along the Ubeji/Egbokodo Road, near Ayiri Junction in Warri.
Eyewitnesses reported that the woman was on her way home after picking up her child from school when the tanker veered off the road due to brake failure, leading to the devastating incident.
How the Tragic Incident Happened
According to local sources, the tanker was traveling at an excessively high speed when it suddenly experienced a brake failure, making it impossible for the driver to control the heavy vehicle.
“The tanker was coming too fast. People were already trying to avoid it because we could hear the loud horn blaring as the driver struggled to stop it. Before we knew it, the tanker left its lane and crashed into the woman and her child, who were waiting by the roadside to cross.” – an eyewitness recounted.
The massive vehicle reportedly dragged the victims several meters before coming to a halt, leaving the mother and her child lifeless at the scene.
Properties Destroyed, Others Injured
Beyond the loss of two lives, the accident also left several others wounded and destroyed properties worth millions of naira.
Shops, roadside stalls, and parked vehicles along the busy road suffered extensive damage as the out-of-control tanker crashed through the area.
Several individuals who sustained various degrees of injuries were quickly rushed to a nearby hospital by Good Samaritans and emergency responders.
Police Confirm the Incident
The Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview with journalists in Warri.
He stated that while the accident claimed two lives, other victims were receiving medical attention.
“Only two deaths have been recorded so far; others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment.” – SP Edafe said.
Calls for Stricter Traffic Regulations
Following the tragic accident, residents and road users in the area have called for stricter regulations on heavy-duty vehicles, especially tankers transporting petroleum products.
Many believe that poor vehicle maintenance, reckless driving, and lack of effective road safety measures contribute to frequent road accidents in Delta State and Nigeria at large.
“This is not the first time we are seeing something like this. These tanker drivers are always in a rush, and many of them do not maintain their vehicles properly. If we don’t do something, more people will continue to die.” – A resident lamented.
Government Urged to Take Action
Local authorities and concerned citizens have urged the Delta State government and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to:
✔️ Conduct regular vehicle inspections to ensure that only roadworthy trucks are allowed on highways.
✔️ Enforce stricter speed limits for tankers and heavy-duty vehicles in residential areas.
✔️ Introduce alternative routes for fuel tankers to reduce their presence in densely populated areas.
✔️ Establish emergency response stations along major roads to handle accidents swiftly.
A Growing Concern: Road Safety in Nigeria
This tragic accident in Delta is one of many road mishaps in Nigeria caused by reckless driving, brake failure, or poorly maintained vehicles.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), thousands of lives are lost annually in Nigeria due to avoidable road accidents involving tankers, trailers, and commercial vehicles.
Experts have continually emphasized the need for:
📌 Better enforcement of road safety laws
📌 Regular safety training for truck drivers
📌 More pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to prevent unnecessary casualties
Conclusion: A Preventable Loss
The deaths of this innocent mother and child serve as a painful reminder of the urgent need for road safety improvements.
As authorities investigate the cause of this accident, it is crucial for all stakeholders—government agencies, truck owners, and drivers—to take responsibility and prevent future tragedies on Nigerian roads.
Read also: “PDP Vows to Sack APC Lawmakers in Delta Central by 2027 – State Chairman”
Key Takeaways:
✔️ A speeding petrol tanker lost control in Delta State, killing a woman and her child.
✔️ The accident occurred due to brake failure, also leaving several others injured.
✔️ Properties worth millions of naira were destroyed as the tanker veered off the road.
✔️ The Delta State Police have confirmed two deaths, while other victims are being treated.
✔️ Residents are calling for stricter traffic laws to prevent similar tragedies.
