One person has died and another sustained serious injuries after a petrol tanker crashed, overturned and caught fire in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident occurred opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat, where the tanker, which was carrying petroleum products, reportedly overturned following a road accident before bursting into flames.
The fire spread to nearby shops and buildings, with several vehicles also affected by the blaze, according to the Cross River State Police Command.
The tanker driver was reportedly caught in the fire but was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical treatment. The police had initially said no death had been confirmed while emergency operations were ongoing.
An update from the police later confirmed that one person had died in the incident, while another person sustained serious injuries and was receiving medical attention.
Police officers from the Odukpani Division were deployed to the scene to secure the area, protect residents and prevent further casualties. The Fire Service was also alerted to help contain the blaze.
Authorities urged residents and motorists to stay away from the affected area and allow emergency responders to work without obstruction.
The police said further information would be released as more details are verified, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash continue.