Major fire disaster averted in Kwara community as tanker detaches from truck

Firefighters in Kwara State successfully averted a major fire disaster in Olori town on Thursday, just before 9 a.m., when a petrol tanker carrying approximately 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) detached from its truck on the newly built Jebba highway. The tanker in question, registered as OYO 45 AA, was en route from Lagos to Abuja.

Upon noticing an unusual noise while driving, the tanker's driver pulled over to inspect the vehicle. After confirming no visible issue, the driver intended to continue his journey. However, the PMS tank unexpectedly separated from the truck, creating a potentially dangerous situation within a densely populated area packed with buildings, shops, and vehicles, presenting a significant risk of fire outbreak and potential loss of lives and property.

Firefighters swiftly arrived at the scene and began preventative firefighting measures, dousing the surrounding area and the tanker with water to prevent any spontaneous ignition and further escalation. Their prompt actions effectively contained the immediate danger, and they maintained a standby operation until the PMS was safely transferred into another empty tanker.

Chief Fire Officer of the state fire service, Alabi Muhammed, praised the firefighters' professionalism and vigilance, highlighting the critical need for immediate and coordinated intervention in petroleum incidents due to their highly flammable nature. He urged tanker operators and drivers to perform thorough pre- and during-journey inspections and to promptly report any unusual sounds, leaks, mechanical faults, or other warnings to emergency responders.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from petroleum tanker incidents and avoiding any activity that could generate sparks or flames around spilled petroleum products.