A petrol tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) lost control and caught fire in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, causing panic and destruction in the area. The incident occurred along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, leading to a massive blaze that engulfed nearby vehicles and properties.
According to eyewitnesses, the tanker driver lost control while navigating a sharp bend, causing the vehicle to overturn and spill its contents. The spilled fuel ignited almost immediately, resulting in a fierce fire that spread rapidly.
Emergency response teams, including the Oyo State Fire Service and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were quick to arrive at the scene. Despite their efforts, the fire caused significant damage to nearby shops and vehicles. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported, but several people sustained minor injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The FRSC has attributed the accident to speeding and poor road conditions.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver was speeding and lost control due to the bad state of the road. We urge all motorists to exercise caution, especially when transporting hazardous materials,” said FRSC spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide.
The incident has caused major traffic disruption along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, with motorists advised to use alternative routes. Authorities have also warned residents to avoid the area as emergency teams work to clear the debris and ensure safety.
The Oyo State Government has promised to investigate the incident and take steps to prevent future occurrences. “This is a tragic incident that could have been avoided. We will work with relevant agencies to improve road safety and prevent such accidents in the future,” said a government official.
As the community begins the process of recovery, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with the transportation of hazardous materials and the need for stricter safety measures.