Scores of residents suffered injuries of varying degrees while properties worth an estimated hundreds of millions of naira were destroyed following the explosion of a fuel tanker in Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of ​​Edo State.
The incident occurred after a petrol tanker reportedly overturned along the Auchi-Okene Highway, discharging its highly flammable contents into drainage canals in parts of the city.
Some of the spilled fuel reportedly flowed into underground tunnels, worsening the situation.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that the tanker later caught fire, with the fire passing through the drainage network and triggering multiple explosions at several locations including Igbe Road, Warrake Road Junction near AP and surrounding areas.
Residents trapped in the affected areas suffered injuries during the explosions.
The victims were taken to Auchi General Hospital, while others were treated at nearby private medical facilities.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Eno Ikoedem, said the explosion occurred at around 6:30 pm after the tanker fell.
He said police officers from Auchi Divisional Headquarters and Area Command were quickly deployed to the scene to secure the area and prevent further damage.
“Our agents immediately cordoned off the affected places to guarantee public safety. No fatalities have been officially recorded,” he said.
Reacting to the incident, the Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described the explosion as alarming and urged residents and motorists to remain vigilant, especially during the festive season when road traffic and commercial activities peak.
In a statement issued by his chief of staff, Victor Oshioke, Oshiomhole said reports, images and videos circulating online showing massive fires in Auchi were verified through consultations with community leaders.
It revealed that it is collaborating with relevant state and federal authorities, emergency management agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen response mechanisms and improve coordination in handling similar emergencies in the future.