A major tragedy struck Edo State on Wednesday evening as a tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, crashed and exploded on the busy Benin-Auchi road. The catastrophic incident has left an unconfirmed number of people dead and caused extensive property damage.
Timeline of a Disaster
The accident occurred on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Upon crashing, the tanker immediately caught fire, triggering a massive blaze. The situation worsened rapidly when the spilled fuel flowed into drainage channels that connect several communities around the Auchi area. This allowed the flames to travel swiftly along these underground paths, creating multiple fire fronts far from the original crash site.
Widespread Impact and Eyewitness Account
The consequences of the explosion were severe and far-reaching. An eyewitness who spoke to SaharaReporters confirmed that several people lost their lives, although the exact death toll remains unknown as rescue operations continue. The inferno, which completely engulfed the tanker, spread through the drainages and ignited areas along the connected routes, affecting numerous houses in its path.
In addition to the loss of life and property, the incident caused significant disruption to transportation. Traffic along the vital Benin-Auchi road was brought to a standstill. Authorities have advised motorists to completely avoid the area and seek alternative routes until the situation is brought under control and the road is cleared.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Concerns
The incident highlights critical issues surrounding road safety and the transportation of hazardous materials on Nigerian highways. The rapid spread of fire via community drainage systems points to a unique and deadly hazard in such accidents. Emergency services, including fire fighters and rescue teams, are likely on the scene working to contain the blaze and assist victims.
This tragic event on the Benin-Auchi road serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by fuel tanker accidents. The community awaits official statements from the Edo State government and relevant agencies regarding the final casualty figures and plans for assistance to those who lost their homes and loved ones.
