BREAKING: Panic as Petrol Tanker Explodes In Edo, Several Feared Dead
Panic gripped residents and traders along the Benin-Lagos Expressway near Oluku, Benin City, Edo State, following a petrol tanker explosion that reportedly left several people feared dead and destroyed property.
The incident occurred after a tanker laden with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) reportedly fell and spilled its contents, attracting people who rushed to scoop the petrol before the vehicle burst into flames.
The resulting inferno reportedly engulfed parts of the area, with eyewitnesses saying several victims were burnt beyond recognition. Shops and nearby buildings were also affected, forcing residents and traders to flee for safety.
Although the casualty figure had yet to be officially confirmed at the time of filing this report, injured survivors were reportedly rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) for treatment.
Security personnel and firefighters were said to be conducting emergency rescue operations.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council expressed grief over the incident and sympathised with affected families, while praying for the speedy recovery of injured victims.
In a statement issued by its Director of Media, John Mayaki, the council described the explosion as heartbreaking and called for urgent assistance for survivors and families who lost loved ones.
Mayaki also commended the Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Professor Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, for personally coordinating the hospital's emergency response, praising medical personnel and other emergency workers for their efforts.
The council, however, condemned attempts to politicise the tragedy, questioning a social media post reportedly linking the fire outbreak to the visit of Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
“What exactly is the connection between a tanker explosion and the First Lady's visit? Is a fire outbreak now a welcome ceremony?” Mayaki queried.
He urged political actors to put compassion above partisan interests, stressing that human suffering should not be exploited for political advantage.
The council called on relevant authorities to support affected families, assist survivors and take steps to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.
