A devastating fire incident erupted early Wednesday morning along the Ibafo axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, causing widespread panic and destruction in the surrounding community. The blaze originated from a petrol tanker that overturned near a commercial bank, leading to a catastrophic explosion that engulfed vehicles and residential buildings.
Eyewitness reports indicate that the tanker driver lost control of the vehicle, possibly due to falling asleep at the wheel. The subsequent spill of petrol into a nearby drainage system ignited, rapidly spreading flames into the community about one kilometer away.
Several buildings suffered shattered windows, damaged roofs, and cracked walls. Eyewitnesses noted that at least four parked trucks at a nearby fuel station were completely destroyed.
At least three individuals sustained injuries during the incident, prompting immediate medical attention.
Local residents, alongside police officers, worked to control the fire until emergency services arrived. Fortunately, timely construction of drainage systems may have mitigated further damage.
Tunde Adewumi, a resident of the affected area, expressed his relief that the situation was not worse. "It was a serious incident," he stated. "Thank God for the drainage; otherwise, we could have faced much greater devastation."
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed that the tanker driver was injured and transported to Real Divine Touch Hospital in Ibafo for treatment.
The spokesperson for the police emphasized ongoing investigations into the cause of the accident and fire.
Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around fuel stations and tanker trucks to prevent future incidents. The Ogun State Government has also promised a thorough investigation into this alarming event.
As investigations continue, community leaders are calling for enhanced safety measures along major highways to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.