5 vehicles with passengers burnt as petrol tanker explodes in Ibadan

A devastating scene unfolded in the Iyana-Ajia, Egbeda area of Ibadan, Oyo State, when a petrol-laden tanker exploded, sparking a massive inferno. The explosion, which occurred on the Ibadan-Ife Expressway near the ongoing Iyana-Ajia bridge construction, engulfed two articulated trucks, an 18-seater bus, two commercial cabs, and three motorcycles. Eyewitnesses described the moment as terrifying, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky and panicked residents fleeing for their lives.

As of the time of filing this report, the tanker was still burning fiercely, turning the affected vehicles into smoldering wreckage. Firefighters and emergency responders were on the scene, battling to control the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further. The chaotic situation caused severe traffic congestion, with commuters stranded and businesses temporarily shut down to avoid the raging inferno.

Several passengers were reportedly trapped in the burning vehicles, sparking fears of casualties, though the exact number of victims remains unconfirmed. Eyewitnesses recounted how some passengers narrowly escaped with injuries, while others were not as fortunate. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of fuel transportation along major highways, especially in densely populated areas.

Local authorities have urged residents to stay clear of the area and have called for an urgent review of safety protocols for tanker drivers. The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined, but initial reports suggest a possible brake failure that led to the catastrophic event. This latest tragedy underscores the pressing need for stricter safety measures to prevent future occurrences and protect lives and property on Nigeria’s roads.