Scores of residents were injured and properties worth hundreds of millions of naira destroyed following a fuel tanker explosion that rocked Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The incident occurred when a petrol-laden tanker reportedly overturned along the Auchi–Okene Highway, spilling its highly inflammable contents into drainage channels across parts of the town.
It was gathered that some of the spilled fuel seeped into underground tunnels, aggravating the danger before the tanker later burst into flames.
Eyewitnesses said the ensuing inferno spread rapidly through the drainage network, triggering multiple explosions in different locations, including Igbe Road, the Warrake Road Junction near AP, and adjoining neighbourhoods.
Several residents within the affected areas sustained varying degrees of injuries during the explosions.
Victims were rushed to the General Hospital, Auchi, while others received treatment at nearby private hospitals.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Eno Ikoedem, said the explosion occurred at about 6:30 p.m. after the tanker fell.
She said police officers from the Auchi Divisional Headquarters and the Area Command were immediately deployed to the scene to contain the situation and avert further damage.
“Our officers immediately cordoned off the affected locations to ensure public safety. No fatalities have been officially recorded,” she said.
Reacting, the Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described the incident as alarming and called on residents and motorists to exercise caution, particularly during the festive season when traffic and commercial activities usually increase.
In a statement issued by his Chief of Staff, Victor Oshioke, Oshiomhole said circulating reports, images and videos of the massive fire outbreak in Auchi were verified through consultations with community leaders.
He disclosed that he was engaging relevant state and federal authorities, emergency management agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen response mechanisms and improve coordination in the handling of similar emergencies in the future.