irefighters in Oyo State successfully averted a major disaster on Thursday, July 3, after a petrol tanker carrying 45,000 litres of premium motor spirit (PMS) lost control and fell by the roadside at Onigari village along the Oyo/Ogbomoso expressway. The tanker, which detached from its cab, began leaking its highly flammable contents, creating a high risk of explosion.
According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred around 12:20 p.m. while the driver was trying to navigate potholes on the road. Their swift reports prompted the immediate response of the Oyo State Fire Service Agency, whose prompt deployment to the scene was credited with preventing what could have been a devastating fire. The firemen, led by CFS Tijani, applied fire-suppressing chemicals and followed strict safety procedures.
Chairman of the Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, confirmed the incident and praised the coordinated response of the agency and the SAFER highway patrol team, who also arrived to provide security. Their combined efforts ensured that the situation was contained without any casualties or property damage, showcasing the importance of emergency preparedness and rapid intervention.
