Governor Monday Okpebholo of [Edo State](https://www.edostate.gov.ng) inspected the wreckage of a petrol tanker that detonated on Thursday along the Benin‑Lagos Road in the Ovia North‑East Local Government Area, killing several people and razing the Oluku market.
The blast, which occurred after the tanker owner moved fuel into a second tanker without observing safety protocols, could have been avoided, the governor asserted. He noted that the owner “brought another tanker to transfer the fuel without observing the necessary safety measures,” and condemned the reckless action.
**What triggered the explosion?**
The incident was linked to an unsafe fuel‑transfer operation. The owner’s decision to shift petrol between tankers without proper precautions led to a fire that engulfed the surrounding market and attracted onlookers who began scooping fuel from the spill.
**How did the governor react?**
Okpebholo expressed sorrow, stating, “If this had not happened, there would not have been any fire incident.” He promised to reconstruct the destroyed Oluku market and to compensate traders who lost their shops and merchandise. He also visited victims receiving care at the [University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH)](https://www.ubth.gov.ng), reiterating the need for public compliance with safety warnings.
**What safety advice was given?**
The governor reminded residents that both state and federal authorities have invested heavily in awareness campaigns about the dangers of siphoning fuel from crashed tankers. He warned that continued disregard for these warnings endangers lives and property.
The administration remains committed to rebuilding the market and supporting affected traders as part of its broader response to the tragedy.