Gas Tanker Explosion Claims One Life, Injures Six, and Engulfs Vehicles in Flames on Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos Expressway

Tragedy struck on Saturday along the Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos Expressway as a gas tanker explosion resulted in one fatality, six injuries, and the destruction of six vehicles. According to Florence Okpe, spokesperson for the Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the incident occurred at Ita Osin, with reports indicating that the deceased was the suspected motorboy of the gas-laden tanker.

The accident, which transpired around 4:10 pm, was attributed to brake failure experienced by the tanker. As a result, the vehicle lost control and collided with a roadside culvert before erupting into flames. The fire quickly spread, engulfing five other cars and two nearby shops in the vicinity of the accident.

Okpe provided further details, stating, “The crash occurred at about 1610 hrs Involving a tanker laden with gas. The number of people involved was six (6) and all male adults, two (2) got injured but unfortunately, one (1) person died from the fire incident which is the motor boy who was trapped.” She also listed the ref numbers of the vehicles involved in the accidental collision.

Mechanical deficiency, specifically brake failure, was identified as the suspected cause of the crash. Following the incident, emergency services were swiftly alerted, and measures were taken to prevent a secondary crash. The deceased’s body was transported to the State General Hospital morgue in Abeokuta, while the injured victims received medical attention from their families.

Fatai Adefala, Director of the Ogun State Fire Service, confirmed the incident and reported that fire service personnel were on-site to clear the wreckage of the burnt tanker. The aftermath of the explosion left a scene of devastation, underscoring the urgent need for heightened safety measures and vigilance on the nation’s roads to prevent similar tragedies in the future.