I’m A major tragedy was averted in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Friday morning when a petrol tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) overturned along the Ogbomosho Express Road in the Eyenkorin area of the state capital.
The incident occurred around 8:03 a.m. at the Kpasa Bridge when the tanker, with registration number ARG 680 SO, reportedly lost control due to a brake failure. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle was conveying fuel from Lagos to Sokoto when it suddenly flipped, spilling its contents on the road.
Confirming the incident, the Head of Media and Publicity for the Kwara State Fire Service, PFO Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, said the swift response of firefighters prevented what could have been a catastrophic explosion.
“Upon receiving the distress call, our firefighters immediately mobilised to the scene and secured the perimeter to prevent ignition. The area was thoroughly drenched to suppress heat emissions from the spilled petrol under the intense sunlight,” the statement read in part.
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Adekunle added that the firefighters remained on standby throughout the recovery process while the fuel was safely transferred into another empty tanker. Their vigilance ensured that no spark or fire outbreak occurred during the operation.
He further commended the professionalism and quick response of the fire crew, noting that their actions reflected the agency’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
In a related statement, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Falade John Olumuyiwa, urged motorists—particularly tanker drivers and those transporting flammable goods—to prioritise vehicle maintenance and observe all safety protocols before setting out on journeys.
“Safety consciousness remains the best prevention against avoidable disasters on our highways. We urge all drivers to take necessary precautions before embarking on any journey, particularly when transporting highly combustible materials,” he warned.
Thanks to the timely intervention of the fire service, what could have been a devastating explosion was successfully prevented, sparing lives and properties in the Eyenkorin community from potential disaster.