One person has been confirmed dead and another seriously injured following a tanker fire that occurred opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Cross River State.
The incident happened on Saturday, October 4, 2026, after a tanker loaded with petroleum products was involved in a road accident, overturned and burst into flames.
The inferno reportedly spread from the tanker to nearby shops and buildings, causing panic among residents and other road users in the area.
The Cross River State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Eitokpah Sunday, said officers from the Odukpani Division were deployed to the scene to secure the area and prevent further casualties.
According to the Command, the tanker driver was trapped in the fire but was rescued and taken to a hospital for treatment.
The police initially reported that no death had been confirmed, with the fire affecting shops and vehicles around the scene. However, a subsequent update confirmed that one person lost their life, while another sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
The Command said the Fire Service had been alerted to deploy personnel and equipment to contain the blaze and urged residents to stay away from the affected area.
It also appealed to members of the public to allow emergency responders unhindered access to the scene as efforts continue to prevent further loss of lives and property.
The police assured the public that additional information would be released as verified details emerge.
