A fully loaded 33,000 fuel tanker exploded on Friday afternoon, December 18 at Aleshinloye junction, after Iyaganku area of Ibadan, Oyo state.
The tanker while trying to maneuver in the axis fell into a ditch, while the fuel gushed out, sparking an explosion.
The level of casualties could not be ascertained as at the time of filling this report but the entire axis is currently locked down in heavy traffic congestion.
Firefighters on rescue mission are at the location trying to put out the fire while traffic in the area build up.
It was gathered that the fuel-laden tanker fell close to a petrol station, thereby causing panic among road users and residents of the area.
Roads leading to the scene of the explosion were said to have been cordoned off causing gridlock along Dugbe, Ring Road, and Iyaganku areas in the state capital.
An okada rider, who identified himself as Suraj Adewale, told ThePunch that the tanker fell around 12noon but it eventually caught fire about two hours later.
Oyo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Uche Chukwura, confirmed the incident, saying;
A tanker fell this afternoon and it eventually caught fire. Our men are there to control the traffic.
See some photos and videos of the incident below;
Some hours ago, a Petrol Tanker fell at Alesinloye/Iyanganku Junction, close to Total Petrol Station. It caused serious traffic around that axis. pic.twitter.com/X24O7UziFF
— CONNECT IBADAN (@connectIBADAN) December 18, 2020
If you’re in Ibadan, please avoid aleshinloye/alalubosa road… a tanker fell and it’s burning… Rt for awareness pic.twitter.com/8zTLmAr1mM
— Minister zee🤑 (@its_zainy) December 18, 2020
Hello Ibadan, a fire outbreak is happening now at Aleshinloye junction in Ibadan. A tanker reportedly carrying petrol exploded. Kindly avoid Iyaganku, 110 and Aleshinloye axis for now. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/UqED2toyvh
— The Ibadan Lifestyle (@ibadanlifestyle) December 18, 2020
Video: Standstill @ Aleshinloye Market-Iyaganku intersection road Ibadan due to the Raging inferno from the fallen loaded Truck Tanker on the road. Firefighters battling to control the 🔥 fire #IbadanTrafficUpdate pic.twitter.com/UJD6WDiE4s
— IbadanCity ANNOUNCER (@ibcityannouncer) December 18, 2020
