Motorists and commuters making use of the East-West Road in Ohoro Town in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, have appealed to the state government to relocate oil tankers from their present location over safety concerns.
The motorists alleged that the tankers not only impede the visibility of other road users, but pose grave danger along the route.
Chief Clement Tikpa, a community leader from Bomadi, described the situation as a ticking time bomb and cautioned drivers to approach the Ohoro Junction carefully due to the obstructed view caused by the tankers.
He said that the “drivers are forced onto the highway just to check for oncoming vehicles. This area is a flashpoint for accidents unless the state government steps in urgently.”
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In addition to the risk of road accidents, Tikpa warned of environmental dangers, including potential oil spills, explosions, and fire outbreaks, recalling a fire incident last year that damaged properties worth millions.
He also highlighted the risk of young women being drawn into exploitative relationships with tanker drivers in the area.
Jude Ochoro, a transporter who regularly travels between Warri and Port Harcourt, also called for immediate action from authorities.
“The Ohoro community leaders and Ughelli North Council seem indifferent, possibly because of the financial gains from these tankers. We need Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to address this by relocating the tankers to a safer area,” he stated.
