By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A fully loaded lorry crashed, caught fire, and caused panic on Wednesday night at St. Matthias Catholic Church in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. The accident happened along the Agulu Lake–Golden Tulip Hotel Road when the speeding truck lost control, veered off the road, and rammed into the church premises. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded as emergency responders quickly contained the blaze.
How the Incident Happened
According to eyewitness accounts, the lorry was moving at high speed before the driver lost control. The vehicle veered off the sloping road and crashed into the church fence.
An eyewitness, Uzor, explained that the truck burst into flames immediately after impact. As a result, panic spread across the area. However, no one was within the church premises at the time.
Emergency Response and Fire Containment
First responders arrived quickly and began efforts to control the fire. Soon after, firefighters joined the operation and successfully contained the blaze.
The quick response prevented the fire from spreading to nearby buildings. Firefighters remained on-site until they fully extinguished the flames and secured the area.
Driver Flees Scene
Meanwhile, the truck driver fled immediately after the crash. Authorities have yet to locate him. Officials believe speeding and loss of control caused the accident.
Separate Fire Incidents in Anambra
In a related development, the Anambra State Fire Service confirmed another fire outbreak at Climax Industry Limited in Obosi. The early morning fire affected both company and residential buildings.
Firefighters from Ogidi and Okpoko stations responded around 1:00 a.m. They contained the fire and stayed until 5:30 a.m. to prevent a recurrence.
Fire Service Urges Safety Measures
Chukwudi Chiketa, head of the Media and Publicity Unit, stressed the need for fire safety awareness. He urged residents and business owners to report fire outbreaks immediately.
He also confirmed that investigations into the causes of the incidents are ongoing.
