Firefighters avert petrol tanker explosion in Kwara

Firefighters in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, Nigeria, averted a major disaster on Saturday by preventing a petrol tanker carrying 45,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit from exploding. The incident occurred around 9:40 a.m. at Madi Junction along the Oko-Olowo Expressway.

“

It was while the driver was attempting to repair the affected part that the tank detached from the vehicle, resulting in the leakage of petroleum and posing a significant fire hazard.

The Kwara State Fire Service reported that the tanker developed a mechanical fault while in transit. The situation escalated when the tank detached from the truck as the driver attempted to repair the faulty component, leading to a significant leakage of the highly flammable petroleum product. "It was while the driver was attempting to repair the affected part that the tank detached from the vehicle, resulting in the leakage of petroleum and posing a significant fire hazard," stated the Fire Service spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle.

“

Our firefighters immediately secured the area and remained on standby throughout the operation to ensure strict compliance with all safety measures.

Firefighters immediately responded by securing the area and remaining on standby throughout the operation. They provided continuous fire protection while the leaking fuel was carefully transferred to another tanker. This operation successfully prevented any possible ignition or escalation of the incident. The entire operation was completed without any fire outbreak, injuries, or loss of life.

“

I commend our firefighters for their professionalism and prompt response, which prevented what could have been a major disaster.

Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Alabi Muhammed, commended the firefighters for their professionalism and prompt response. He urged tanker operators to conduct regular maintenance on their vehicles and to immediately alert emergency responders to any petroleum-related incidents to safeguard lives, property, and the environment.

“

I also urge tanker operators and motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and to notify emergency responders immediately whenever petroleum-related emergencies occur. Prompt reporting is essential to safeguarding lives, property and the environment.