One person has been confirmed dead and another seriously injured after a petroleum tanker crashed, overturned and caught fire opposite the Odukpani Local Government Secretariat in Cross River State.

The incident occurred on Sunday, October 4, 2026, when the tanker, which was carrying petroleum products, was involved in a road traffic accident and subsequently overturned. The resulting fire spread to nearby shops and buildings, with several vehicles also reportedly affected.

The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying officers from the Odukpani Division had been deployed to the scene to secure the area and protect residents and motorists.

Police spokesperson ASP Sunday Eitokpah said the tanker driver was caught in the fire but was rescued and taken to a hospital for medical treatment.

The police initially reported that no death had been confirmed, but a subsequent update from the command confirmed that one person had died in the inferno and another sustained serious injuries.

The fire also caused damage to businesses and vehicles around the crash site, raising concerns about the safety of residents and other road users in the area.

The Fire Service was alerted to contain the blaze, while the police urged residents and motorists to stay away from the immediate area and allow emergency responders unhindered access.

Authorities have not yet released further details on the identity of the deceased or the circumstances that led to the crash.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation. Further updates are expected as emergency agencies and the police release verified information.