Fuel tanker explosion causes alarm in Osun community

Panic swept through the Ijabe community in Osun State’s Odo-Otin local government area on Saturday when a fuel tanker exploded while driving through the area.

The incident, which took place around midday, involved a tanker en route to Kwara State. Although no casualties were reported at the time of this report, firefighters were actively battling the fire.

The explosion caused severe traffic congestion, prompting commuters to find alternate routes. Local residents also assisted firefighters in efforts to put out the blaze. Authorities are working to restore normalcy in the area.

“The tanker was going towards Offa, Kwara State when it suddenly caught fire at Ijabe. We fled, we don’t know where the driver is, but we were told that he escaped with his motorboy.”  A resident said.

When the spokesperson of Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Osun State Command was contacted, Kehinde Adeleke, she confirmed the incident.

She said: “A Thirty-three thousand liters tanker fully loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) is on fire presently at Ijabe town, right on the highway which links Osun state with Kwara state.

“The cause of the fire outbreak is yet to be ascertained. The incident has led to blockage of road and has also obstructed vehicular movement, which in turn has brought about panic to the dwellers, travelers and most especially the farmers around the area.”