A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, when a petrol tanker exploded near the Total filling station at Orita-Challenge, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The explosion claimed the lives of two unidentified victims, while the tanker driver and his motor boy were seriously injured.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred when the tanker, which was carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, suffered brake failure as the driver was trying to navigate a roundabout. The tanker hit a concrete structure, flipped over, and caught fire. The fire quickly spread due to the flammable nature of the contents, leading to an explosion.
Fire Service Response
The Oyo State Fire Service was alerted to the scene at 5:01 AM on Tuesday. Mr. Yemi Akinyinka, the General Manager of the Fire Service, confirmed that a team led by ACFS Olubunmi Christy was promptly dispatched. Upon arrival, the team found a falling petrol tanker engulfed in flames in front of the petrol station.
“We swiftly swung into action. The foam chemical compound was applied and the fire was put under control within a short period,” Akinyinka said.
The driver and motor boy, who were badly burnt in the explosion, were rescued and handed over to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
Ongoing Efforts to Control the Blaze
Fire personnel from Sumal Food Limited also assisted in controlling the fire. The Oyo State Fire Service personnel remained at the scene to cool down the area and ensure that the fire was completely extinguished.
Cause of the Incident
According to the Fire Service, the brake failure was the cause of the accident, which led to the tragic explosion. The driver’s attempt to negotiate the roundabout resulted in the tanker crashing into the concrete and overturning, sparking the deadly fire.
This devastating incident has raised concerns over road safety and the transportation of flammable materials.
