From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A gas-laden Toyota Sienna bus, conveying 23 gas cylinders and six drums of carbide on Wednesday, crashed along Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Ilorin, raising fears of a possible fire or explosion after petroleum was also found leaking from one of the vehicles involved.
The accident occurred at about 4:43pm around the Stadium Complex Gate, in front of Bekki & Sons Ltd., when the Sienna, with registration number LEM 95 XB, reportedly suffered brake failure while in motion.
In an apparent attempt to stop the vehicle, the driver reportedly manoeuvred towards the road divider but lost control, causing the Sienna to cross to the opposite lane, overturn and collide with a tricycle, a Toyota Avensis and a motorcycle.
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The other vehicles involved were a tricycle with registration number SHA 503 VD, Toyota Avensis with registration number SMK 530 JB, and motorcycle with registration number ARP 405 VE.
The driver of the Sienna sustained injuries in the crash.
The presence of the gas cylinders and carbide drums, coupled with petroleum leaking from one of the vehicles, heightened the danger at the scene and posed a serious threat to motorists, pedestrians and nearby property.
Responding to the incident, the Kwara State Fire Service said its personnel swiftly moved in to contain the situation and prevent the hazardous materials from triggering a secondary disaster.
The Fire Service said its men successfully secured the gas cylinders and carbide drums, while also managing the petroleum leakage and preventing the situation from escalating.
The agency explained that the temporary restriction of movement on the affected section of Ibrahim Taiwo Road, was necessary to enable emergency responders to operate safely and protect other road users.
Following the completion of the emergency operation, the Fire Service confirmed that the affected section of the road was safe and motorable, while urging motorists to exercise caution.
The Chief Fire Officer, Kwara State Fire Service, CFS Alabi Muhammed, commended the firefighters for their prompt response and professionalism, saying their timely intervention helped prevent the incident from developing into a more serious emergency.
He also urged motorists conveying inflammable and hazardous materials to ensure that their vehicles were properly maintained and roadworthy before embarking on journeys.
The statement was signed by PFO Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, PRO and Head, Media Unit, Kwara State Fire Service.
