From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A fatal crash involving a fuel tanker and a truck carrying fertilizer on the Oko-Olowo/Jebba Expressway in Kwara State, led to a raging fire on Friday, claiming the life of the truck driver while emergency responds worked swiftly to avert further tragedy.
The accident, which occurred at Iyemaja Village, happened when the articulated truck attempted to overtake the fuel-laden tanker but lost control and struck its rear. The impact caused a fuel spill that immediately ignited, engulfing both vehicles in flames.
Eyewitnesses described how the fire spread rapidly, leaving the driver of the truck trapped in the inferno. “The flames was intense. People tried to help, but it was too late. By the time firefighters arrived, the truck driver was already gone,” said Sheu Arobadi, a resident who witnessed the accident.
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The Kwara State Fire Service confirmed that their team arrived promptly and prevented the fire from escalating further. “We were able to contain the fire and salvage the fertilizer cargo, which could have worsened the situation,” said the Director of the Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa.
Addressing reports that dozens of people had perished in the incident, the agency’s spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, dismissed the claims as false. “Contrary to rumors on social media, only one life was lost. We urge the public to rely on verified information,” he stated.
The tragic incident has once again raised concerns over road safety on the Oko-Olowo/Jebba highway, with residents calling for urgent interventions to prevent further accidents. “This road records frequent crashes. The government must consider constructing a flyover or widening the lanes to reduce risks,” Arobadi added.
Authorities have reiterated their call for strict adherence to road safety measures, urging motorists to exercise patience and caution, especially when navigating highways shared with heavy-duty vehicles.
