Photos: Tanker Fire Kills Two at Ibadan Filling Station

Tragedy struck in the early hours of Tuesday as a petrol tanker fire claimed two lives at the GABSTAB Mega Petrol Station in the Orita Challenge area of Ibadan, Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The Oyo State Fire Services Agency confirmed the incident in a statement, revealing that the victims were the tanker driver and his motor boy, both of whom were burnt to death in the inferno.

According to the agency’s General Manager, Yemi Akinyinka, the fire service received a distress call about the fire at 5:15 am and swiftly mobilised its personnel to the scene.

“We got information about the GABSTAB Mega Petrol Station, Orita Challenge, fire incident at 5:15 am and deployed our men immediately,” Akinyinka stated.

“The driver and motor boy were burnt to death.”

Preliminary investigations indicated that the tanker driver lost control of the vehicle due to brake failure, which led to the tanker spilling its highly flammable content, igniting the fire.

Akinyinka noted that prompt intervention by the Oyo State Fire Service, alongside private fire service operators, prevented the fire from spreading further into the residential area, averting a larger catastrophe.

Despite the firefighters’ efforts, the driver and his assistant were unable to escape and succumbed to the raging flames. Their remains were later handed over to officers of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) at the scene.

Akinyinka assured residents that the situation had been brought under control and stated that further details regarding the incident would be provided as investigations continue.

Eyewitness Accounts and Reactions

Residents and eyewitnesses described the scene as horrific, with flames engulfing the station and thick black smoke billowing into the sky.

One witness, who preferred to remain anonymous, said, “The fire was intense. We heard a loud explosion, and before we knew it, the tanker was already in flames. It’s so sad that the driver and his assistant couldn’t escape.”

Meanwhile, authorities have urged motorists, particularly tanker drivers, to ensure proper maintenance of their vehicles to prevent such tragic accidents in the future.

Authorities Call for Caution

The Oyo State Fire Service has reiterated the need for strict safety measures at fuel stations and along major roads, emphasising the dangers of fuel-related mishaps.

While the immediate danger has been averted, officials have warned residents to remain vigilant and report any fire hazards promptly.