Tanker Safety Concerns After Benin City Explosion

A tanker explosion at Oluku Market in Benin City, Edo State, caused injuries and destroyed multiple vehicles including two buses, an Audi saloon, a truck, and market structures. The incident occurred on October 17, 2026, at approximately 9:20 am.

Timothy Iwuagwu, President of the Institution of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, emphasized mandatory inspections and certifications for tanker trucks before port clearance. He identified truck design flaws, mechanical defects, and safety compliance issues as key risks.

Iwuagwu warned the public to avoid spilled petroleum products and fallen tankers, stressing that exposure to flammable materials could lead to fatal explosions. He noted that people typically avoid such hazards when they occur.