Goods worth millions of naira were destroyed yesterday when an articulated truck laden with detergent caught fire along the Ogbomoso-Ilorin expressway in Kwara State.

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started when one of the truck’s tyres burst while the vehicle was in motion. The incident occurred at approximately 1:25 a.m. in Lasoju community, where the fire spread to the detergent products stacked in paper cartons.

The Kwara State Fire Service confirmed the incident and identified the truck with the registration number ALK 625 XA.

Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity for the agency, explained that the friction between the damaged tyre and the hot tarred road generated excessive heat, igniting the tyre. The fire then spread quickly to the detergent products.

Adekunle stated: “On Tuesday, May 5, 2025, at about 1:25 a.m., the Kwara State Fire Service promptly responded to a distress call regarding a truck fire at Lasoju, along the Ogbomoso Expressway, Kwara State. Upon arrival, firefighters swiftly began efforts to contain the blaze and prevent further damage.

“Their actions were commendable, as they not only extinguished the fire but also worked to salvage the goods being transported. Fortunately, no lives were lost, and there were no reported injuries.”

Falade John Olumuyiwa, Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, urged the public to remain vigilant and safety-conscious, particularly when transporting flammable or heat-sensitive materials.