|By Chinwendu Nwani
A fuel tanker explosion tore through parts of Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, on Wednesday evening, injuring scores of residents and destroying properties estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of naira.
The incident occurred along the Auchi–Okene Highway after a petrol-laden tanker reportedly overturned, spilling its highly flammable contents into drainage channels across sections of the town.
Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when the spilled fuel flowed through underground tunnels, spreading rapidly beneath surrounding communities. Moments later, the tanker burst into flames, with fire racing through the drainage network and triggering multiple explosions in different locations, including Igbe Road, the Warrake Road Junction near AP, and adjoining areas.
Residents within the affected zones sustained varying degrees of injuries as the explosions rocked the neighbourhoods, forcing many to flee for safety.
Victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Auchi, while others received treatment at nearby private medical facilities.
Confirming the incident, the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Eno Ikoedem, said the explosion occurred at about 6:30 p.m. after the tanker fell.
She disclosed that officers from the Auchi Divisional Police Headquarters and the Area Command were immediately deployed to the scene to secure the area and avert further damage.
“Our officers promptly cordoned off the affected locations to ensure public safety. No fatalities have been officially recorded,” Ikoedem stated.
Reacting to the explosion, the Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described the incident as alarming and urged residents and motorists to remain vigilant, particularly during the festive season when traffic volume and commercial activities increase.
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.
He added that he is engaging relevant state and federal authorities, emergency management agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen emergency response mechanisms and improve coordination to effectively manage similar incidents in the future.
