Momoh Reacts to Auchi Inferno, Expresses Deep Concern, Calls for Enhanced Safety Measures

The Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar E. Momoh, FNSE, has expressed profound concern over the fire incident that ravaged parts of Auchi town on the evening of Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Minister described the incident as a painful reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities situated along major transport corridors. He said he received reports and visual evidence of the inferno with deep distress, noting the scale of destruction suffered by residents, traders, and property owners within the affected areas.

Preliminary accounts available indicate that the incident may have originated from an accident involving a petroleum tanker along the Benin–Okene axis, resulting in the spillage of highly flammable products into surrounding environments. The subsequent ignition reportedly triggered fire outbreaks at multiple points within Auchi, leaving behind extensive damage to homes, shops, and livelihoods.

Engr. Momoh extended his heartfelt sympathies to all individuals and families affected by the incident, particularly those who lost their means of livelihood. He expressed relief that, as at the time of the statement, there were no confirmed reports of fatalities, while urging continued caution as emergency assessments and clean-up efforts progress.

The Minister emphasized the urgent need for improved safety consciousness among motorists transporting hazardous materials, as well as stricter enforcement of road safety and emergency response regulations, especially during periods of increased travel and commercial activities.

He also called for closer collaboration between federal and state emergency agencies, local authorities, and community leaders to strengthen disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and rapid response frameworks capable of mitigating the impact of such incidents when they occur.

Reaffirming his commitment to regional safety and sustainable development, Engr. Momoh assured the people of Edo State and the wider region that relevant stakeholders are being engaged to ensure lessons from the Auchi incident translate into improved preventive and response measures going forward.

Signed:
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
Media Aide
Honourable Minister of Regional Development