According to a report from Punch Newspaper, a potentially catastrophic incident was averted by the swift action of the Kwara State Fire Service when a truck carrying 33,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) overturned at Passa village along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso Expressway.

The truck, bearing the registration number SAP 920 YK, spilled its contents onto the road, prompting villagers to gather in an attempt to scoop the fuel. However, firefighters, in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the police, intervened promptly to prevent the illegal activity.

Hassan Adekunle, the Head of Media and Publicity for the Kwara State Fire Service, revealed that “On Friday, April 19, 2024, at 12:33 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service swiftly responded to a distress call reporting a tanker spill at Passa, Eyenkorin expressway along Oko Olowo, Asa Local Government. The tanker involved had the vehicle registration number SAP 920 YK.

“The dedicated firefighters from the Kwara State Fire Service promptly drenched the area and the tanker to mitigate the risk of fire. “Despite the imminent danger, a group of individuals in the vicinity were prepared to illegally siphon the petrol.

“Fortunately, thanks to the timely intervention of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Police, alongside the Fire Service, the situation was brought under control.

“Through coordinated efforts and cooperation, the petrol was safely transferred to another empty tanker, while security personnel remained vigilant at the scene.”

Expressing gratitude for the collaborative effort, Director Falade John commended the NSCDC and the Nigeria Police for their crucial assistance in ensuring the situation was brought under control without any mishap.

This incident echoes a similar intervention by the Kwara State Fire Service reported by The Punch in November 2022, where two petrol tankers were saved from explosion following a collision on the Ilorin-Jebba road. The timely response and effective coordination of emergency services continue to play a pivotal role in averting disasters and safeguarding lives and property in Kwara State.