Swift intervention by operatives of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Zonal Command, Oyo, on Thursday, prevented what could have been a devastating tanker explosion at the External Home Cemetery area along the Ibadan-Oyo Expressway, Fiditi.

According to a statement from the agency, an emergency call was received at 7:15 p.m., reporting a multiple-truck collision involving a petrol-laden tanker. The distress call was made via telephone and relayed through CFS Binuyo.

Upon arrival at the scene, firemen led by CFM Akinlabi discovered a MACK petrol tanker (Lagos registration: T30874LA) carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) had lost control and rammed into a MAN Diesel cargo trailer (Bauchi registration: TRR 611SA). The impact caused a significant spillage of fuel, posing an imminent risk of explosion.

The fire service team promptly applied foam compound over the affected area to suppress volatile vapours and prevent ignition. Their swift and strategic response successfully averted a major disaster.

No casualties were recorded in the incident, and properties worth millions of naira were saved.

Personnel from the Jobele Police Division, led by CFS Adeduntan, provided security and coordinated traffic control during the operation, ensuring the safety of residents and road users in the vicinity.

Speaking on the incident, the Special Adviser on Fire Reform and Chairman, Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Hon. Moroof Adebayo Akinwande, lauded the professionalism of the responders and urged drivers of articulated vehicles to adhere strictly to road safety rules.

He stressed the importance of installing fire extinguishers in all vehicles, particularly those transporting flammable materials, noting that early suppression can prevent fire outbreaks from escalating.

He also urged the public to report fire incidents promptly, providing accurate location details to aid emergency response.