Fuel Tanker Explosion Rips Through Auchi, Scores Injured as Fires Destroy Properties Worth Millions

A fuel tanker explosion has sent shockwaves through Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, leaving scores of residents injured and destroying properties estimated to be worth hundreds of millions of naira.

The explosion followed an accident along the Auchi–Okene Highway, where a petrol-laden tanker reportedly overturned, spilling its highly flammable contents into open drainage channels that cut across parts of the town.

Eyewitnesses said the situation quickly escalated as the spilled fuel flowed through underground drain networks, turning residential and commercial areas into a dangerous fire trap.

Moments later, the tanker reportedly burst into flames. The fire raced through the drainage system, triggering multiple explosions in different locations, including Igbe Road, the Warrake Road Junction near AP, and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Residents caught within the blast zones sustained varying degrees of injuries as the fires spread rapidly, forcing people to flee in panic.

Victims were rushed to the General Hospital, Auchi, while others received treatment at nearby private health facilities.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Eno Ikoedem, said the explosion occurred at about 6:30pm after the tanker fell.

She said officers from the Auchi Divisional Police Headquarters and the Area Command were immediately deployed to the scene to secure affected areas and prevent further casualties.

“Our officers swiftly cordoned off the locations impacted by the explosion to ensure public safety. No fatalities have been officially recorded,” she said.

Reacting to the incident, the Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, described the explosion as disturbing and urged residents and motorists to exercise caution, especially during the festive season when road traffic and commercial activities peak.

In a statement issued by his Chief of Staff, Victor Oshioke, the former Edo governor said reports, images and videos circulating online showing raging fires in Auchi were verified through consultations with community leaders.

Oshiomhole disclosed that he is engaging 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.