Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has visited victims of the deadly fuel tanker explosion at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), assuring affected traders that his administration will rebuild the fire-ravaged Oluku Market.
Okpebholo, accompanied by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, other government officials and the member representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Omosede Igbinedion, made the visits on Friday, October 16, 2026.
The governor first visited Oluku Market to assess the destruction caused by the inferno before proceeding to UBTH to check on victims receiving treatment for severe burns and other injuries.
At the market, Okpebholo and his entourage were conducted round the affected areas, where the fire reportedly destroyed properties and disrupted the livelihoods of traders.
The governor expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and sympathised with families affected by the disaster.
Addressing the victims, he assured them that the government would not abandon them in their moment of grief.
“The President is aware of your situation and what happened here yesterday. He has said your pains are his pains. We will repair your market. Stop crying; we will wipe your tears,” Okpebholo said.
At UBTH, the Chief Medical Director, Professor Idia Ize-Iyamu, briefed the governor and his delegation on the condition of the injured victims and the medical care being provided to survivors.
The hospital management disclosed that 11 victims had initially been admitted following the incident, with some still receiving treatment.
