From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A swift intervention by the Kwara State Fire Service, prevented what could have been a major fire disaster after a petrol tanker carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), was involved in an accident at a filling station in Ilorin
The incident occurred at YTK Filling Station, opposite the Youth Camp in the Apata area of Eyenkorin, when the tanker, with registration number ARP 51 XB, reportedly lost control while being repositioned within the station.
According to the Kwara State Fire Service, the brigade received a distress call at about 6:02 a.m. and immediately deployed firefighters to the scene.
Preliminary investigations showed that the tanker rammed into the station’s perimeter fence, causing the compartment containing the petrol to detach from the truck and creating a potentially dangerous situation.
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Firefighters quickly secured the area and began intensive cooling and dampening operations to eliminate any possible source of ignition.
The service said the spilled petrol was safely transferred into another empty tanker under its supervision, bringing the emergency operation to a successful end without any fire outbreak, casualties or property damage.
Chief Fire Officer of the Kwara State Fire Service, Alabi Muhammed, praised the firefighters for their prompt response and professionalism, noting that their actions prevented what could have turned into a catastrophic incident.
He also advised tanker drivers and petroleum marketers to strictly comply with safety procedures during the transportation, parking and handling of petroleum products.
“Caution remains the most effective means of preventing avoidable emergencies,” the fire chief said.
