Kwara Fire Service Prevents Major Tanker Explosion Disaster in Ilorin

Operatives of the Kwara State Fire Service successfully averted a potentially catastrophic petrol tanker explosion in Ilorin, the state capital, on Saturday morning. The incident, involving a tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), occurred around 9:40 a.m. at Madi Junction on the Oko-Olowo Expressway, following a mechanical malfunction.

According to Hassan Adekunle, spokesperson for the Kwara State Fire Service, the tanker developed a fault while in transit. The situation worsened significantly when the vehicle's tank separated from the truck body as the driver attempted to fix the mechanical issue, leading to the leakage of highly flammable petroleum product onto the road. Adekunle stated, “It was while the driver was attempting to repair the affected part that the tank detached from the vehicle, resulting in the leakage of petroleum and posing a significant fire hazard.”

Responding swiftly, the fire service team immediately cordoned off the affected area to ensure public safety. Firefighters remained on alert throughout the operation, providing continuous fire protection as the volatile fuel was meticulously transferred from the compromised tanker into a new, secure one. “Our firefighters immediately secured the area and remained on standby throughout the operation to ensure strict compliance with all safety measures,” Adekunle added. He further explained, “The emergency response team provided continuous fire protection while the petroleum was carefully transferred from the affected tanker to another tanker, preventing any possible ignition or escalation of the incident.”

The spokesperson confirmed that the extensive operation concluded without any fire outbreak, injuries, or fatalities, marking a successful disaster prevention effort.

Commending the professionalism and prompt action of his personnel, Alabi Muhammed, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, stressed the importance of regular vehicle maintenance for tanker operators. He also urged them to promptly notify emergency services whenever petroleum-related incidents occur. Alabi said, “I commend our firefighters for their professionalism and prompt response, which prevented what could have been a major disaster. I also urge tanker operators and motorists to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and to notify emergency responders immediately whenever petroleum-related emergencies occur. Prompt reporting is essential to safeguarding lives, property and the environment.”