Panic as two petrol tankers catch fire in Oyo

By Adejayan Gbenga

There was palpable fear on Wednesday when two tankers loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, caught fire in Oyo State.

The incident, which occurred along the Ibadan-Ile-Ife Expressway, was said to have been caused by a tanker trailer that lost control while in motion, swerved off the road, fell into a nearby ditch, and caught fire, igniting another tanker in the process.

Fortunately, tragedy was averted due to the prompt response of firefighters at the scene.

The General Manager of the Oyo State Fire Service, Mr. Yemi Akinyinka, confirmed the incident and narrated the ordeal.

Akinyinka, in a statement on Thursday, said:
“The fire incident was reported at exactly 09:29 hrs on Wednesday, 16th April 2025.

“Immediately, firemen led by ACFS Adesina Olusoji were deployed to the scene. On arrival, we found two tanker trailers engulfed in fire. We quickly swung into action and were able to curtail the fire in time.

“The fire was the result of a tanker trailer loaded with 45,000 litres of PMS losing control while in motion, swerving off the road, and falling into a nearby ditch, which led to the fire. The presence of security agencies was also appreciated for providing cover during the firefighting operation.”