Multiple Explosions Rock Auchi, Edo

Multiple explosions shook Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area in Edo State, on Wednesday evening.

The blasts reportedly occurred at about 6:30 p.m. in three separate locations: Igbei Road, the Igbo Shade area near an AP filling station, and along the Auchi–Okene Road close to Winners Junction.

Several properties, including buildings and shops, were destroyed, with preliminary reports indicating losses worth millions of naira. As of filing this report, the number of casualties remained unknown.

An eyewitness who spoke on condition of anonymity said the explosions appeared to be almost simultaneous and suggested that the attacks may have been coordinated. The source called for a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents.

A fuel tanker reportedly fell along the expressway during the incident, prompting residents to attempt to scoop fuel from the spill.

The situation was contained following the intervention of the Police Area Commander in Auchi, who mobilised officers to prevent further hazards.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, explained that the explosions followed the fall of the fuel tanker.

She stated that leaked fuel had seeped into underground tunnels, eventually igniting and causing explosions across multiple areas of Auchi.

ASP Ikoedem added that officers from the Auchi Divisional Police Headquarters and the Area Command were quickly deployed to cordon off the affected areas, preventing further loss of life.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue.