NIGERIA: Several Feared Dead as Petrol Tanker Explodes in Edo State

A petrol tanker explosion along the Benin-Lagos Expressway near Oluku in Benin City, Edo State, has reportedly left several people feared dead and property destroyed.

The explosion occurred after a tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit popularly known as petrol, reportedly fell and spilled its contents, attracting people who attempted to scoop the product before the vehicle caught fire.

An eyewitness said the resulting fire engulfed parts of the area, leaving several victims reportedly burnt beyond recognition.

Shops and buildings were also said to have been affected, forcing residents and traders to flee for safety. The exact number of casualties had yet to be officially confirmed as of the time of filing this report.

Survivors who sustained varying degrees of injuries were reportedly taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), while security personnel and firefighters continued rescue operations.

Reacting to the incident, the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council expressed sadness over the tragedy and extended its condolences to affected families.

In a statement issued by its Director of Media, John Mayaki, the council described the incident as heartbreaking and called for support for survivors and bereaved families.

The council also commended the Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Professor Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, for personally coordinating the hospital's emergency response, while praising medical personnel and other responders for their efforts.

Mayaki urged political actors to refrain from politicising the tragedy, stressing that the priority should be to support victims and their families.

He also called on the relevant authorities to take steps to prevent similar incidents, noting that human lives should remain paramount regardless of political differences.