Petrol Tanker Erupts in Flames After Brake Failure in Ibadan, Oyo State

A devastating fire incident occurred in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, when a petrol tanker transporting 33,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, erupted in flames.

According to a report obtained by LMSINT MEDIA, the tragic event unfolded on Thursday evening at Celica Junction, situated along the New Ife Expressway in Ibadan.

How the Petrol Tanker Fire Accident Happened

Investigations reveal that the tanker suffered a brake system failure while in motion, which caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle. As a result, the out-of-control tanker collided with a Toyota Prado Jeep and another unidentified car. This collision led the tanker to overturn, triggering an inferno that engulfed the surrounding vehicles.

Although the fire was intense, no lives were lost in the accident. However, the blaze affected both the Prado Jeep and the car involved, causing substantial damage.

Official Statement from Oyo State Fire Service

Honourable Maroof Akinwande, the Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, confirmed the incident through an official statement provided to LMSINT MEDIA on Thursday. According to Akinwande, the distress call was received precisely at 6:27 PM.

He stated:

“Our firemen responded promptly by deploying chemical foam compound to douse the flames, successfully preventing the fire from extending to the nearby NNPC petrol station and adjacent properties. The effort was a combined operation with the Federal Fire Service officers.”

Further clarifying the cause, Akinwande reiterated:

“The fire was a direct consequence of a braking system failure in the moving truck. This mechanical fault caused the driver to lose control, collide with a Prado Jeep and another vehicle, before the tanker toppled and ignited.”

While there were no human casualties, the tanker, the car, and the Prado Jeep were all affected by the fire. Additionally, the Jeep was thrust into a nearby drainage channel due to the impact of the crash.

Fire Safety Precautions and Lessons

This incident serves as a critical reminder about the importance of vehicle maintenance, especially for heavy-duty trucks carrying highly flammable substances like PMS. Regular brake system checks and adherence to road safety protocols are essential to prevent such catastrophic events.

For more safety tips on handling fuel-related hazards, visit the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) official website.