A lorry crashed into the St. Matthias Catholic Church, Agulu, located along Agulu Lake-Golden Tulip Hotel Road in Anambra State’s Anaocha Local Government Area, and immediately caught fire.
It was said that the incident, which occurred late on Wednesday, caused gridlock as rescue efforts were attempted to keep the fire from spreading.
One of the eyewitnesses at the site, who only provided his name as Uzor, informed our correspondent that the lorry was traveling at full speed when it veered across the road and crashed into a building’s fence, catching fire.
Although no one was killed or injured, the truck’s driver fled the area immediately following the incident.
“The lorry was at full speed and veered off the sloppy road, thereby crashing into the church building and immediately igniting a fire. There were no casualties, as some people who initially gathered around the vicinity had already dispersed before the incident occurred.
“But the incident caused panic and gridlock as first responders made rescue efforts to quench the fire before the arrival of the fire service. This caused gridlock as motorists had to slow down because of the fire,” the witness said.
When reached on Thursday, the Anambra State Fire Service’s Media and Publicity Unit, commanded by Chukwudi Chiketa, confirmed the developments.
Chiketa blamed the collision on speeding and loss of control.
Chiketa said, “A fire incident occurred yesterday at St. Matthias Catholic Church, Agulu, located along Agulu Lake–Golden Tulip Hotel Road, following a road accident involving a heavy-duty lorry.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the lorry lost control, veered off the road, and crashed into the church premises, subsequently igniting a fire outbreak.
“A crew of firemen from the Anambra State Fire Service responded promptly to the distress call and successfully brought the situation under control.
“The team effectively contained the fire and prevented further escalation. Operations at the scene have been concluded, and firemen safely withdrew to the station.”
He further claimed that a fire broke out at Climax Industry Limited, which is located at Nnanka Street, Oduma Layout, Obosi, Idemili North LGA, of the state.
According to him, the incident on Wednesday provoked a swift response from firefighters, with personnel from both the Ogidi and Okpoko fire stations dispatched to the scene.
“The Anambra State Fire Service wishes to inform the general public of a fire incident that occurred at Climax Industry Limited, located at Nnanka Street, Oduma Layout, Obosi.
“The distress call was received at about 0100 hours on Wednesday, 18th March, 2026, prompting an immediate response from firefighters. Personnel from both Ogidi and Okpoko fire stations were swiftly mobilized to the scene.
“The affected property comprises both company and residential structures. Through coordinated efforts and professionalism, the fire was successfully brought under control, preventing further spread to nearby buildings.
Firefighters remained on the ground until 0530 hours of the same day to ensure complete extinguishment and to eliminate any possibility of reignition. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained as investigations are ongoing.”
Chiketa called on members of the public to remain vigilant and prioritize fire safety measures at all times.
“Residents and business owners are strongly advised to promptly contact the nearest fire station in the event of any fire outbreak to enable timely intervention. Early reporting saves lives and property,” he added.
