By Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Hon. Omosede Igbinedion has visited the scene of the devastating fire outbreak at Oluku Market along the Benin–Lagos Expressway in Benin City, Edo State, to sympathise with victims of the disaster and call for urgent repairs to the road where the accident occurred.

The visit followed Thursday’s tragic incident on October 15, 2026, when a petrol-laden tanker reportedly overturned near the market, spilling fuel that later ignited and triggered a massive inferno that destroyed shops, vehicles and traders’ goods.

The disaster left traders and residents counting their losses, with several commercial structures and vehicles reportedly destroyed. The incident also raised fresh concerns about road safety, the condition of the highway and the dangers associated with fuel scooping from fallen tankers.

During her visit, Igbinedion assessed the affected area and expressed sympathy with traders, business owners and residents whose livelihoods were disrupted by the incident. She acknowledged the difficulties facing victims who lost their goods, business premises and sources of income.

She also called for urgent repairs to the road leading to the accident scene, stressing the need for the relevant authorities to address the condition of the road and take practical measures to reduce the risk of similar incidents. The call adds to concerns about the safety of motorists and other road users along the busy Benin–Lagos Expressway.

The lawmaker’s intervention comes amid growing calls for assistance for victims of the disaster. Traders who lost their goods and business premises face the difficult task of rebuilding their livelihoods, while those injured in the inferno require medical attention and support.

Reports on the incident indicated that several people sustained burn injuries and were taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for treatment.

The tragedy has also renewed concerns about the dangers of fuel scooping and the need for stronger public awareness, effective emergency response and improved safety measures around major highways and markets.

Igbinedion’s visit underscores the importance of supporting affected communities during emergencies, particularly when small-scale traders and families lose property and income in sudden disasters.

As investigations into the incident and assessments of the losses continue, residents and traders will need sustained attention, practical assistance and measures to improve road safety to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy.