Two people lost their lives on Tuesday in a tragic petrol tanker accident that occurred at Pasa village along the Ilorin–Jebba highway in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The victims were identified as the tanker driver and his motor boy. The tanker, carrying 30,000 litres of petrol and registered as NSR 966 ZQ, reportedly lost control, veered off the road, overturned, and burst into flames around 3:43 pm.
According to a statement from the Kwara State Fire Service spokesman, Hassan Adekunle, emergency response teams arrived quickly at the scene and managed to extinguish the fire, preventing it from spreading to other vehicles on the busy highway.
“Sadly, the driver and the motor boy lost their lives immediately at the scene of the accident,” Adekunle said.
The Director of Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and urged all road users, especially tanker drivers, to exercise extreme caution while on the highways.
Falade stressed the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and urged drivers to adhere strictly to speed limits to avoid accidents caused by loss of control.
He also warned against night journeys where possible and highlighted the need for proper rest to prevent fatigue, a known factor in road accidents.
“Drivers should ensure their vehicles are well-maintained and avoid speeding,” the director said. “They should also keep fire extinguishers in their vehicles and report emergencies promptly to ensure quick response from the fire service.”
Nigeria’s highways have seen frequent accidents involving petrol tankers in recent years, often leading to multiple casualties and large-scale fires. Such accidents not only cause loss of life but also disrupt traffic and cause significant economic losses.
Authorities across Nigeria have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and improved driver training, particularly for those handling hazardous materials like fuel.
This latest accident at Pasa village adds to the growing list of tragic incidents on Nigerian roads involving fuel tankers. The Kwara State Fire Service’s warning highlights the urgent need for more responsible driving and preventive measures to reduce such disasters.
