Fire disaster averted after petrol tanker spill on Kwara highway
A major fire disaster was averted on Tuesday morning at Oko-Olowo axis of Ilorin, Kwara State, following a petrol tanker spill.
The incident occurred at about 18:36hrs, at Oko-Olowo, Jebba/Bode-Saadu Expressway, where a petrol tanker with registration number P 3517 LA, fully loaded with 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), lost control.
According to reports, preliminary investigation revealed that while in motion, the tanker’s engine suddenly switched off, causing a loss of compressed air from the air tank and subsequent brake failure.
However, in an attempt to mitigate the situation, the driver steered the vehicle into a roadside gutter, which resulted in the tanker spilling its contents.
Spokesman of the state fire service, Hassan Adekunle, said the swift intervention of firefighters, averted a major fire disaster in the area.
He said the team immediately drenched the surroundings and the tanker to prevent ignition, while ensuring public safety.
“Furthermore, the spilled product was safely siphoned into another tanker with registration number T-21470 LA.
“It is important to note that several shops and business premises were close to the scene, but due to the professional handling by the fire service, no fire outbreak or loss of lives was recorded,” he added.
Also present at the scene were officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) who ensured the free flow of traffic and supported the operation.
Speaking on the incident, the Director of Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, advised motorists, especially tanker drivers, to ensure proper maintenance of their vehicles, with special attention to braking systems and compressed air tanks, to avoid preventable emergencies.
He further appealed to the public to always maintain a safe distance from accident scenes involving petroleum products and to immediately call the fire service in case of emergencies.
Fire disaster averted after petrol tanker spill on Kwara highway
