A petrol-laden tanker exploded in the early hours of Friday along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway, sparking fears of multiple casualties.

The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. near the Abeokuta-Kobape–Siun–Sagamu interchange when the tanker, reportedly speeding, lost control and overturned, spilling its contents across the highway.

The leaked fuel ignited almost immediately, setting off a massive blaze that engulfed nearby vehicles and infrastructure. A truck and a tow vehicle were destroyed, while a high-tension power cable supplying electricity to Mowe and adjoining communities was burnt, plunging several areas into darkness.

Emergency responders, including the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Ogun State Fire Service, Nestlé Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the police, Amotekun, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), were mobilised to the scene to battle the inferno and commence fuel evacuation.

Eyewitnesses and officials warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.

Traffic on the busy expressway has been reduced to a single lane, with diversions in place. Motorists have been urged to remain calm and obey rerouting instructions to ease congestion.

TRACE spokesperson, Mr. Babatunde Akinbiyi, confirmed that the tanker was carrying 33,000 litres of petrol, noting that excessive speed and loss of control were likely responsible for the crash.

“The public, particularly motorists on transit along the route, is implored to be calm, patient, and cooperate with the diversion and re-routing of traffic. We deeply regret any inconvenience,” he said.