A petrol tanker explosion in Oluku, Edo State, leaves eleven injured as residents rush to scoop fuel from the spilled tanker.
Eleven people have sustained varying degrees of burns following a devastating petrol tanker explosion in Oluku, located within the Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, according to information published by punchng.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon at approximately 1 pm after the heavy-duty vehicle fell earlier in the morning, prompting nearby residents to rush to the scene and begin scooping fuel from the spill.
Emergency services and medical personnel quickly mobilized to the scene and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital to treat the victims, aiming to minimize fatalities and stabilize those critically injured in the accident, according to information published by punchng.
Causes of the Oluku Petrol Tanker Explosion
The tragedy unfolded when fuel spilt from the fallen tanker and flowed directly into nearby drainage channels, around which numerous commercial shops had been erected at the bustling Oluku Market.
An eyewitness revealed that a watchful soldier warned him about the high risk of ignition under the bright sunny weather, just moments before the massive explosion rocked the area and forced desperate onlookers to run for their lives.
Emergency Response at University of Benin Teaching Hospital
Following the disaster, the University of Benin Teaching Hospital swiftly received the casualties into its emergency unit for immediate medical attention, with 10 people initially rushed to the facility for urgent treatment.
The Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, personally took charge of the emergency response by leading specialized medical teams across the accident, emergency, and burns units to save lives.
Damage to Market Shops and Vehicles
The raging fire quickly spread from the drainage channels to engulf nearby market shops and various vehicles that were unfortunately caught in the chaotic aftermath of the afternoon explosion.
Local reports confirmed that two men hailing from northern Nigeria who were positioned directly beneath the tanker sustained severe burns, while multiple commercial structures built directly over the drainage systems were completely razed.
Edo State Fire Service Intervention
Personnel from the Edo State Fire Service promptly arrived at the accident scene to battle the ferocious blaze, working tirelessly to extinguish the flames and prevent further destruction in the area.
Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the property damage and monitor the health status of the hospitalized burn victims as safety officials reiterate warnings against the dangerous practice of fuel scooping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the petrol tanker explosion in Edo State?
The explosion occurred after a petrol tanker fell in Oluku, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, and residents gathered to scoop the spilled fuel, which eventually ignited.
How many people were injured in the Oluku tanker fire?
A total of 11 people sustained varying degrees of burns and were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Which hospital treated the victims of the Edo tanker explosion?
The University of Benin Teaching Hospital received the injured victims, with Chief Medical Director Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu leading the emergency and burns units response.
Were any structures damaged during the Edo State incident?
Yes, the fire spread to nearby vehicles and shops built over drainage channels at the Oluku Market, completely razing several commercial structures.
