Tragedy struck on Thursday in Oluku, Ovia North East Local Government Area along the Benin–Lagos Highway when a petrol-laden tanker exploded, killing at least four people, including a soldier, and leaving many others injured.
The tanker reportedly fell around 7:30 a.m., prompting residents to rush and scoop fuel despite warnings from security operatives. Witnesses said the fire ignited while people were collecting fuel, spreading rapidly to nearby vehicles and the Bob Izua market, owned by businessman Chief Osamede Adun.
Several shops and cars were destroyed in the inferno. One survivor recounted how a soldier’s warning saved his life:
“As I looked back after he spoke to me, the tanker burst into flames. People ran for their lives. I thank the soldier; if not, I would have been burnt.”
Two men who were directly under the tanker were reportedly burnt beyond recognition. At least ten victims with severe burns were rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where emergency teams led by Chief Medical Director Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu mobilised across accident, emergency, and burns units to stabilise casualties.
Authorities are yet to confirm the final death toll, but the incident has left the community in shock, with widespread destruction of property and livelihoods.