Petrol Tanker Explodes in Ibadan, Causing Major Fire Incident

Brake Failure Leads to Tanker Explosion on New Ife Expressway

A major fire outbreak erupted in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday evening after a petroleum tanker carrying 33,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) exploded at Celica Junction along the New Ife Expressway.

According to eyewitness reports and official statements, the incident occurred when the tanker suffered brake failure, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle. The out-of-control tanker subsequently collided with a Toyota Prado jeep and another car before overturning and bursting into flames.

Emergency Response Prevents Greater Disaster

Oyo State Fire Service Chairman, Hon. Maroof Akinwande, confirmed that emergency services were alerted at exactly 6:27 PM on Thursday. Firefighters from both the state and federal fire services responded promptly to the scene.

“The firemen swiftly swung into action by applying chemical foam compound and restricted the fire from spreading to the nearby NNPC petrol station and surrounding properties,” Akinwande stated in an official release.

The quick response proved crucial in preventing what could have been a catastrophic incident, given the proximity of the explosion to a major fuel station and residential areas.

No Casualties Reported Despite Significant Damage

Miraculously, no fatalities were reported in the incident, though the fire completely destroyed the tanker and one of the involved cars. The Prado jeep was reportedly pushed into a nearby gutter by the force of the collision.

Authorities have commended the coordinated efforts of emergency responders who worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further damage to surrounding properties.

Safety Concerns Raised Following Incident

This latest tanker explosion has reignited concerns about road safety measures for fuel transportation in Nigeria. Transportation experts are calling for stricter enforcement of vehicle maintenance standards, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles carrying hazardous materials.

The incident follows a similar petrol tanker explosion in Oyo State reported earlier, highlighting what appears to be a worrying trend of fuel-related accidents in the region.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have launched an investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the brake failure. Preliminary findings suggest mechanical failure as the primary cause, though a full technical inspection of the vehicle remains ongoing.

Road safety advocates are using this incident to push for mandatory regular safety checks for all commercial vehicles, particularly those transporting flammable materials.

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