At least 12 people have been confirmed dead, while 38 others sustained serious injuries following a fuel tanker explosion that occurred on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, in Ndem community, Ogoja Local Government Area.
The incident reportedly happened during a fuel transloading operation when a tanker fell into a nearby river and suddenly burst into flames. The resulting inferno quickly spread across the area, trapping and burning several residents who had gathered at the scene.
Eyewitnesses described the situation as chaotic, with many victims suffering severe burns. Some of the deceased were said to be burnt beyond recognition due to the intensity of the fire.
A resident, Anthony Ekeni, who was at the scene, said about 38 persons were affected, including at least 12 who lost their lives. Among those feared dead are the Chairman of the Ogoja Truckers Association and a recently promoted Assistant Superintendent of Police, although their identities have not yet been officially confirmed.
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Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the remains of the deceased had been recovered and released to their families, including members of the Hausa Muslim community for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
He added that police operatives, alongside emergency responders, were immediately deployed to the area to secure the scene, manage traffic, and assist in rescue efforts.
The injured victims were rushed to the General Hospital in Ogoja for urgent medical attention.
The police further disclosed that the area was cordoned off to prevent additional casualties, while reinforcements were brought in to contain the fire and ensure public safety.
Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion, particularly focusing on the circumstances surrounding the fuel transloading process that led to the deadly incident.
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