A major incident unfolded in Oyo State on Thursday when a petroleum tanker, carrying 50,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), lost control and swerved off the Ogbomoso/Oyo Road at Olope Marun. The accident raised serious concerns about a potential fire disaster due to the highly flammable nature of the contents in the tanker.
According to eyewitnesses, the tanker veered off the road while in motion, detaching from its head and causing the petrol to spill out. The swift action of local residents, who immediately alerted the Oyo State Fire Service, played a critical role in preventing a potentially catastrophic fire.
The General Manager of the Oyo State Fire Service, Mr. Yemi Akinyinka, confirmed the incident, stating that a distress call was received by the agency at 14:53 hrs on February 27, 2025. Within two minutes of the call, emergency responders, including a fire tanker, five personnel, and ACFS Dairo, were mobilized and arrived at the scene by 14:59 hrs.
Upon arrival, the team found the Mack trailer tanker with its 50,000 litres of petrol gushing out. In order to prevent a potential explosion or fire, the fire service personnel immediately took action by carpeting the area with a foam compound designed to suppress flammable liquids. This quick response helped avoid what could have been a devastating blaze.
Firefighters are still on the scene, working to mitigate further risks and contain the situation. The tanker’s cargo of PMS posed a significant threat to the surrounding environment, and the fire service team’s quick thinking and readiness were crucial in averting a disaster.
At the time of the report, no casualties were reported, and the cause of the tanker’s loss of control is under investigation. Emergency responders continue to work diligently to ensure that the area remains safe and secure.