Men of the Kwara State Fire Service averted a major fire disaster on Friday after a petrol tanker conveying 45,000 litres of petroleum from Lagos to Sokoto overturned at Kpasa Bridge, Eyenkorin, along the Ilorin–Ogbomoso Expressway in Kwara State.

The tanker, with registration number AEG 680 SO, reportedly suffered a brake failure around 8 a.m., causing it to lose control and flip over, spilling its contents on the busy highway.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Kwara State Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, said the prompt response of firefighters prevented what could have been a tragic explosion.

“Upon receiving the distress call, our firefighters promptly mobilised to the scene and immediately secured the perimeter to prevent ignition,” Adekunle said.

“The team thoroughly drenched the environment to suppress heat emissions from the spilled product under direct sunlight. They maintained strategic standby while the petrol was being siphoned into another empty tanker to prevent further danger.”

He added that the firefighters’ professionalism and quick intervention significantly reduced the risk of a fire outbreak.

“Their conduct and courage once again demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the Kwara State Fire Service in safeguarding lives and property,” Adekunle stated.

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa, commended his men for their swift action and urged motorists, particularly fuel tanker drivers, to prioritise safety and proper vehicle maintenance.

“Drivers of petrol tankers and other highly flammable cargoes must ensure regular servicing of their braking systems,” he said. “Safety consciousness remains the best prevention against avoidable disasters on our highways.”

Normal traffic flow was later restored to the affected section of the expressway after emergency teams completed product transfer and cleanup operations.