A petroleum tanker was involved in a road traffic accident in Cross River State, Nigeria, on Saturday, October 4, 2026. The incident occurred opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Odukpani. The tanker overturned and caught fire, spreading to nearby shops and buildings. The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident and deployed officers to secure the area and ensure public safety.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Eitokpah Sunday, preliminary information indicated that the tanker was conveying a petroleum product when it overturned, resulting in the fire. The driver of the tanker was reportedly caught in the fire and rescued, taken to a hospital for medical attention. Police officers from Odukpani Division were deployed to maintain safety and secure the area.
The fire incident was reported to have affected nearby shops and buildings, with the police initially stating that no death was confirmed at the time of filing the statement. However, an update on the incident later confirmed that one person died in the inferno. Another person sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
The Cross River State Police Command urged members of the public to stay away from the immediate area and allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene. The police spokesman added that further updates would be communicated as verified information becomes available. The Fire Service was also alerted for immediate deployment to contain and extinguish the fire.
The incident highlights the risks associated with road traffic accidents involving petroleum tankers. The Nigerian police have been working to enhance safety measures and emergency response strategies. The state police command continues to investigate the cause of the accident.
Emergency responders, including firefighters and medical personnel, were deployed to the scene to contain the fire and provide medical assistance. The injured person is receiving treatment at a local hospital. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide support to those affected.
The police have assured the public that they will provide updates on the incident as more information becomes available. An investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing. The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the transportation of petroleum products in the region.
Key points
- One person died and another was seriously injured in a petrol tanker inferno in Cross River State, Nigeria.
- The incident occurred when a tanker conveying petroleum product was involved in a road traffic accident and overturned, resulting in a fire that spread to nearby shops and buildings.
- The police have deployed officers to the scene and urged the public to stay away to allow emergency responders to access the area.
