Ibadan, Oyo State – At least two persons have been confirmed dead following a tanker explosion that occurred in the early hours of Tuesday in Ibadan, Oyo State. The tragic incident took place around 5:00 am near Gabster Mega Petrol Station at Orita Challenge, within the Oluyole Local Government Area.
According to reports, the tanker driver and his assistant were trapped in the explosion and burnt beyond recognition. The blast caused significant destruction, leaving the area engulfed in flames and creating panic among residents.
The Special Adviser on Fire Services Reform to Governor Seyi Makinde and Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Moroof Akinwande, confirmed the incident. He stated that emergency responders were promptly alerted and mobilized to the scene.
“We received the distress call at 5:15 am and immediately responded. The situation is now under control,” Akinwande said.
The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined, but the incident has raised concerns about safety measures around fuel tankers and petrol stations in the area. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and avoid the scene to allow emergency services to complete their operations.
The Oyo State government has assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent future occurrences. Meanwhile, the community is mourning the loss of lives and counting the cost of the destruction caused by the explosion.