Six individuals, including five children from the same family and their tricycle rider, have reportedly died in a tragic tanker accident that occurred at Ibelebiri Community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The devastating incident took place on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., leaving the community in profound shock and mourning.

The children, identified as Isaiah David, God’s Time David, Favour David, Salvation David, and Testimony David, were returning home to Ibelebiri from school in Otuasega Community. Their relative, who was the tricycle rider, regularly transported them. According to residents and a commercial tricycle operator, Mr. Godstime Ike, the accident unfolded as the rider had parked near the children’s residence. One of the children had just crossed the road to enter their home, a detail that tragically saved their life.

It was at that critical moment that a tanker belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) reportedly lost control. The massive vehicle then veered off its path and rammed directly into the parked tricycle, crushing those still inside. The child who had managed to cross the road moments before the crash was the sole survivor among the occupants.

Following the horrific event, the tanker driver reportedly fled the scene before residents could arrive. However, his assistant was apprehended by military personnel and subsequently handed over to the police for further investigation. The Bayelsa State Police Command has since confirmed the accident, with Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, stating that the driver has been arrested. Investigations are currently ongoing to ascertain the precise circumstances and cause of the fatal crash. The bodies of the deceased were evacuated and deposited at St. Pat Mortuary in Otuasega Community for autopsy.