A potentially deadly petrol tanker incident was successfully averted on Thursday thanks to the quick intervention of operatives from the Oyo State Fire Service Agency.
The incident occurred around 12:20 p.m. at Onigari village, along the Oyo/Ogbomoso expressway, when a fully loaded tanker carrying 45,000 litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) lost control and overturned while trying to navigate potholes. The tanker’s cab detached from the body, and fuel began to spill rapidly at the scene.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic moment that could have easily led to an explosion, but the rapid deployment of fire service officials prevented what many feared would be a catastrophic fire.
“The driver was swerving to avoid potholes when the tanker tipped over,” said Remi Olasunkanmi, a local witness. “Had the fire service not responded so quickly, we might be talking about casualties today.”
The Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, confirmed the incident in a statement issued Friday from Ibadan.
He said the distress call was received at 12:34 p.m., prompting an emergency response team led by Chief Fire Superintendent Tijani to the scene.
Upon arrival, the team encountered an overturned IVECO petrol tanker with registration number BKA 661 XA (Kaduna), discharging its flammable content uncontrollably. Firefighters immediately initiated hazard control by applying chemical suppressants and taking all necessary safety precautions to prevent ignition.
“We acted swiftly to neutralize the threat of fire,” Akinwande said. “Our personnel followed strict safety protocols, and the quick response helped avoid what could have become a serious disaster.”
Security at the scene was reinforced by a team from SAFER highway patrol, who managed traffic and ensured the safety of bystanders.
Authorities credited the collaboration between emergency services and local security agencies for the successful handling of the situation. No injuries or fire outbreaks were reported.
