Ogun Tanker Explosion Leaves Casualties, Vehicles and Power Lines Destroyed

A midnight tanker fire along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway has claimed an unconfirmed number of lives and destroyed property, according to the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE).

TRACE spokesperson, Babatunde Akinbiyi, said the accident occurred around 1 a.m. on Friday when a 33,000-litre petrol tanker overturned due to excessive speeding, spilling fuel across the road and igniting a fire.

“The case of an inferno caused by a 30,000-litre fuel-laden tanker which fell on its side and spilled its contents around 0100hrs today, along the Abeokuta–Kobape–Siun–Sagamu Interchange stretch of the PMB Expressway, due to excessive speed and loss of control, has been reported,” Akinbiyi explained.

The fire also destroyed a truck, a tow vehicle, and a PHCN power cable that supplies electricity to Mowe and surrounding areas.

Emergency response teams comprising TRACE, Ogun State Fire Service, Nestlé PLC Fire Service, FRSC, Police, Amotekun, and NSCDC were deployed to contain the fire, restore order, and carry out fuel decantation.

“Though the casualty figures cannot be ascertained presently, rescue and emergency services are still on the ground,” Akinbiyi noted, while urging motorists to remain patient and comply with traffic diversions.

He added: “Any inconveniences as a result of this unfortunate incident are highly regretted.”