Many feared dead as fuel tanker bursts into flames along Ogun expressway

A midnight tanker accident along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway in Ogun State has left several people dead, though the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.

The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Friday when a 33,000-litre petrol-laden tanker reportedly lost control while speeding. According to the spokesperson for the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Babatunde Akinbiyi, the vehicle overturned, spilling its contents across the road.

Moments later, the spilled petrol ignited, triggering a massive blaze that spread rapidly to nearby vehicles and electrical installations, leaving destruction in its wake.

Akinbiyi explained, “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.

“The effect of the unfortunate incident also extended to the burning of a truck and a tow vehicle along the roadside, as well as the destruction of a PHCN cable supplying electricity to Mowe and environs.

“Though the casualty figures cannot be ascertained presently, rescue and emergency services made up of TRACE, Ogun State and Nestlé PLC Fire Service, FRSC, and the Police are still on the ground to restore normalcy and orderliness after quenching the fire and carrying out the decantation process.”

He further noted that traffic in the area has been reduced to a single lane to allow rescue teams operate safely.

Akinbiyi appealed to road users to remain patient and cooperate with emergency personnel.

“The general public, particularly the motoring public on transit along the route, is implored to be calm, patient, and cooperate with the diversion and re-routing of traffic put in place by TRACE, Police, Ogun State Fire Service, FRSC, Amotekun, and the NSCDC.
“However, any inconveniences as a result of this unfortunate incident are highly regretted,” he added.