Edo APC Council Condemns Politicization of Tanker Blast

In Edo State, a petrol tanker exploded after spilling its contents on the Benin-Lagos Expressway near Oluku, Benin City. Eyewitnesses reported that the spillage attracted crowds attempting to scoop fuel, which led to a fire that engulfed the area, resulting in several victims being burnt beyond recognition.

The exact casualty figures remain unconfirmed. The Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council expressed condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as heartbreaking.

John Mayaki, the council's director of Media, commended Professor Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, for coordinating the hospital's emergency response. The council condemned attempts to politicize the tragedy, referencing a social media post that linked the incident to the visit of Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

Mayaki urged political actors to prioritize compassion over partisan interests. Survivors were taken to UBTH for treatment, with security and emergency personnel involved in rescue operations.