Cross River Tanker Blast Leaves Officer, Soldier Dead

Multiple Fatalities Recorded in Ogoja Tanker Disaster

Several persons, including a police officer and a military operative, have died following a petrol tanker explosion in Nde community, Ogoja Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The tanker was said to have lost control, plunged off a bridge and overturned before catching fire, creating a massive inferno that engulfed nearby victims and caused chaos in the area.

Residents said the blast occurred suddenly, forcing many people to flee for safety.

Officials Provide Preliminary Death Toll

Confirming the tragedy, police spokesperson ASP Sunday Eitokpah said initial reports indicated that four people died on impact, while 10 others later perished in the fire outbreak that followed.

He disclosed that the military victim was part of a petroleum task force operating in the area, while the police officer served as a medical officer at Ogoja General Hospital.

Authorities also said the Chairman of the Ogoja Truckers Association was among those feared dead.

Emergency Response Activated

Security agencies and rescue workers were deployed to the scene shortly after the explosion. The affected area was sealed off to protect residents and prevent further danger.

Victims who survived the blast were rushed to hospital for treatment, while recovery teams evacuated bodies from the wreckage.

Questions Over Fuel Transport Safety

The latest tragedy has again highlighted the dangers associated with transporting petroleum products by road in Nigeria.

Frequent tanker crashes and explosions have continued to raise questions about vehicle maintenance, enforcement standards, road conditions and emergency preparedness nationwide.