By Davidson Ogbebor

The devastating fire that razed Oluku Market along the Benin–Lagos Road on Thursday, October 15, 2026, has raised serious questions about Edo State’s healthcare preparedness, public-safety enforcement and disaster-prevention mechanisms. The incident reportedly followed a petrol tanker accident and an attempt to transfer spilled fuel, resulting in the destruction of shops, goods and vehicles, with several people sustaining burn injuries. Beyond the disturbing images circulated on social media, the tragedy demands a sober assessment of whether government institutions are adequately equipped to prevent emergencies, protect lives and respond effectively when disasters occur.

Governor Monday Okpebholo, who inspected the scene on Friday, October 16, promised to rebuild the market and support traders who lost their businesses. He also visited injured victims receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), where the Chief Medical Director, Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, conducted him and his entourage around the facilities. The governor condemned the dangerous practice of scooping spilled petrol and criticised the tanker owner’s reported decision to bring another tanker to evacuate the fuel without adequate safety precautions. While these concerns warrant investigation, the government must ensure that its response extends beyond warnings and expressions of sympathy to effective enforcement and practical prevention.

The plight of the traders illustrates the economic consequences of such disasters. Market secretary Blessing Itoje appealed for assistance, explaining that traders lost their goods and shops, while some were servicing loans and supporting their families through modest daily earnings. Another trader, Julie Ologbosere, also appealed for support. Governor Okpebholo’s rebuilding promise is therefore welcome, but it should be backed by a transparent recovery plan, a verified register of affected traders, clear eligibility criteria and a published implementation timeline. Reconstruction should incorporate improved fire-safety measures, accessible emergency routes and appropriate firefighting equipment to reduce the risk of a similar tragedy.

The incident has equally placed Edo State’s healthcare system under scrutiny. UBTH’s response highlights the importance of trained medical personnel and specialised facilities in treating burn victims, but effective emergency care also depends on functional ambulances, adequate medical supplies, emergency communication and reliable referral arrangements. The state government should review the response to the Oluku fire, identify any operational gaps and explain how victims requiring prolonged treatment will be supported. Healthcare preparedness must be assessed by the system’s ability to deliver timely, effective care during emergencies, not merely by official hospital visits after tragedy has occurred.

Former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s call for stronger public-safety reforms reinforces the need for sustained enforcement, institutional coordination and preventive action. The Commissioner for Public Safety, Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea Odianosen, also has a critical responsibility in advancing accountability, transparency and public sensitisation. The relevant agencies should clarify their respective responsibilities, strengthen monitoring of hazardous activities and ensure that investigations into major incidents lead to corrective measures. Public-safety management must be transparent enough for residents to understand what went wrong, which safeguards were in place and what steps are being taken to prevent recurrence.

Public sensitisation must also become a continuous programme rather than a reaction to disasters. Government agencies should work with market associations, transport unions, tanker operators, schools and community leaders to educate residents about the dangers of approaching fallen tankers, collecting spilled fuel and obstructing emergency responders. Radio, television and social media campaigns should be supported by practical community outreach, regular emergency drills and consistent enforcement of safety regulations. Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea Odianosen’s public-safety portfolio provides an important platform for coordinating these efforts with the Edo State Emergency Management Agency, the Fire Service, healthcare authorities and local governments. The effectiveness of such programmes should be measured by improved public awareness, safer behaviour and demonstrable emergency preparedness.

Ultimately, the Oluku fire must not become another tragedy followed by promises that fade when public attention shifts. Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to rebuild the market and assist victims should translate into measurable results, while the calls for reform associated with Obaseki and the accountability responsibilities of Rt. Hon. Festus Ebea Odianosen should reinforce a coordinated, transparent approach to public safety. Edo residents deserve hospitals prepared for emergencies, agencies capable of preventing foreseeable disasters and government institutions willing to account for their performance. The true test of leadership is not simply how government responds after tragedy strikes, but how effectively it protects lives and prevents the next disaster.