In a devastating incident along the Ilorin/Bode-Saadu/Jebba Expressway in Kwara State, no fewer than 25 lives were lost, and 15 others sustained serious injuries in a petrol tanker fire resulting from a collision on Tuesday.
The accident involved a petrol tanker with registration number JJN 17 XW, a heavy-duty truck, and an 18-seater bus. According to eyewitnesses, the petrol tanker, en route from Niger State, was traveling on the wrong side of the road, leading to a head-on collision with a heavy-duty truck from Lagos State. The impact of the collision ignited a fierce fire that quickly engulfed both vehicles, also affecting an 18-seater bus traveling from Lagos.
Mr. Stephen Dawulung, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, confirmed the tragic accident, stating that he would provide detailed information later. He mentioned that some of the recovered corpses had already been laid to rest by their relatives.
The Kwara State Director of Fire Service, Mr. John Falade, also confirmed the incident, stating that firemen responded promptly to the fire at Peke village around 3:18 pm on Tuesday. Despite their efforts to quench the inferno, 25 lives were lost, and around 15 individuals were rescued with injuries.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragic event, Falade emphasized the importance of safe driving practices. He urged road users, including drivers, to consistently adhere to safety measures to prevent such heartbreaking incidents in the future. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for vigilance and responsible driving on the roads.