Expert raises fuel tanker safety concerns following explosion at Edo market

Nigeria's safety experts have criticized the handling of a recent fuel tanker explosion in Edo State, warning that improper tanker design and lack of safety inspections have contributed to the incident. Timothy Iwuagwu, President of the Institution of Safety Professionals of Nigeria, has called for mandatory inspection and certification of tanker trucks before they are allowed to leave ports.

He emphasized the dangers of exposed petroleum products, stating that they can lead to fatal explosions due to their highly flammable nature. Iwuagwu urged people to stay away from fallen tankers and stressed that approaching them to scoop spilled gasoline is highly dangerous. The explosion at Oluku Market in Benin City injured several people and destroyed multiple vehicles.

Experts attribute tanker accidents to poor safety compliance, faulty truck construction, inadequate inspections, poor road conditions, and defects in vehicle components. They advocate for stricter regulatory oversight, mandatory safety checks, and the use of rail transportation to move petroleum products, which they believe would significantly reduce road-based risks.