TThe Controller General, Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, has issued a stern and urgent warning to Nigerians on the deadly and irresponsible practice of scooping fuel from overturned or accident-involved tanker trucks.
This warning follows a recent video circulating online showing individuals scooping product from a fallen tanker on Tincan Liverpool Bridge, Apapa, Lagos. Although it was later confirmed that the tanker was conveying diesel, this does not in any way disregard the fact that people still rushed to the scene to scoop the product as usual, a dangerous behaviour that has repeatedly led to catastrophic loss of lives and property across the country.
Official data from relevant authorities recorded that at least 411 Nigerians lost their lives in 2024 while attempting to collect petrol or diesel from accident-involved tankers, making fuel-scooping a leading contributor to post-crash fatalities nationwide.
States such as Niger, Jigawa, Enugu, Kogi and Rivers have all recorded tragic incidents where individuals rushed to scoop fuel from fallen tankers, resulting in avoidable loss of lives and property.
These tragedies consistently reveal a pattern: once ignition occurs, fire spreads rapidly and uncontrollably, leaving little chance for escape and overwhelming emergency responders.
WHY FUEL SCOOPING IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS
➖Spilled fuel produces highly flammable vapour that can ignite from a spark, cigarette ember, engine heat or static discharge.
➖Tankers involved in crashes are structurally unstable, increasing the likelihood of rupture or explosion.
➖Crowds gathering at spill sites amplify the danger and complicate rescue operations.
➖Diesel, though less volatile than petrol, can still ignite and cause severe burns, especially when vapour is confined or mixed with heat sources.
The CGF, hence stressed that
“No quantity of fuel is worth a human life. Nigerians must prioritise safety over material gain.”
WHAT THE PUBLIC SHOULD DO DURING TANKER ACCIDENTS
- Stay far away from accident scenes involving fuel tankers.
- Immediately notify emergency responders and cooperate with them.
- Avoid touching, scooping, or inhaling spilled product.
- Warn others and discourage crowding around spill sites.
The Controller General reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to continuous public education, improved incident coordination and stronger inter-agency collaboration to reduce avoidable tanker-related fatalities in Nigeria.
In case of fire and other related emergencies, members of the public are advised to contact the Federal Fire Service via 0803 200 3557 for immediate assistance.
Signed,
DCF P.O. Abraham, Mphil,MLCG,BL,LLB,ANIPR
National PRO / Head, Corporate Services
Federal Fire Service, National Headquarters
19/1/2026
