The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has expressed grief over the deadly tanker explosion at Oluku, along the Benin-Lagos Highway in Edo State, calling for urgent safety reforms to prevent future tragedies.

The union also urged the government to address deteriorating road conditions and intensify public enlightenment on the dangers of scooping fuel from accident scenes.

In a condolence statement signed by its Acting General Secretary, Comrade Otite Onohwohwo, NUPENG sympathised with Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and residents of Oluku community over the incident, which occurred on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

The union described the loss of lives, injuries and destruction of property as devastating, expressing solidarity with affected families and praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and the speedy recovery of the injured.

NUPENG stressed the need for immediate and sustained action to improve road infrastructure, particularly in Edo State and other parts of the country.

It lamented that tanker explosions and similar tragedies continued to occur despite collaborative efforts with safety agencies to educate Nigerians on the dangers of scooping spilled fuel and other flammable substances at accident scenes.

The union also commended first responders and medical personnel for their prompt intervention following the incident.

NUPENG reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Edo State Government and other stakeholders to strengthen safety measures and promote a safer transportation system.

It called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and prioritise safety, stressing that collective action was necessary to prevent avoidable deaths and protect lives and property.