Lawyer for the victims of the June 3rd, 2015 Circle disaster, Etornam Caleb Afutu, says the 11-year-old case is nearing its end, with judgment possible before the end of 2026.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra, lawyer Afutu said although the tragedy happened 11 years ago, the victims filed their suit in 2018 and have been in court for 8 years since.

“About 69 victims instituted a suit on their behalf against GOIL, the operator of the Circle filling station, the National Petroleum Authority, NPA, and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, AMA,” he stated.

He explained that the victims are accusing the institutions of negligence. “What the victims are claiming is that these bodies were negligent, and because of their negligence they suffered. We are in court seeking 40 million Ghana cedis in damages. This is for lives that were lost, properties that were damaged and cannot be recovered, and victims who survived but have been left in a state where they can no longer work. Because of all these, we are in court seeking compensation,” Mr. Afutu said.

On the progress of the case, the lawyer said all their witnesses have testified. “We presented about seven victims to give evidence before the court. GOIL’s witness has testified, NPA’s witness has testified. Unfortunately, the station manager has passed on, so we have discontinued the case against him. We are no longer pursuing him.”

Mr. Afutu added that AMA’s witness is currently still in the witness box. “The last time we were in court was in May. On 15th June and 18th June, AMA is expected to continue its evidence. After that, the other parties, including NPA, may decide to cross-examine AMA’s witness.”

“At this stage we are getting close to the end. It is very possible this matter will be completed within this year. What is left is for AMA to finish testifying, then we will submit our written submissions, and then we expect the court to deliver judgment,” he concluded.

The June 3rd disaster at the GOIL filling station in Circle claimed over 150 lives and left more than 200 people injured following fire, flood, and fuel explosion.

Report by Bernard K Dadzie Greater Accra Region