Must Read
In a devastating incident on Saturday, a diesel-laden tanker exploded in the Idi-Ape area of Ilorin, Kwara State, leaving two shops and a football viewing center completely destroyed.
Prompt intervention from the Kwara State Fire Service and law enforcement agencies played a crucial role in preventing casualties and minimizing property damage in the affected area.
The Kwara State Fire Service reported that an estimated property worth N145.2 million was saved due to the timely response, while N34.6 million worth of property succumbed to the inferno.
According to eyewitnesses and confirmation from the Kwara State Fire Service, the tanker, en route to supply diesel to a Collo site mast at Magaji Aare Quarters, suddenly caught fire.
Hassan Adekunle, the Head of Media and Publicity for the Kwara State Fire Service, provided details of the incident. He stated, "On the 30th of December 2023, at approximately 10:47 hours, the Service swiftly responded to a fire emergency at Magaji Aare quarters, Ajegunle, in the Idi-Ape area of Ilorin East Local Government."
Adekunle explained that the firefighters, armed with their fire appliances, arrived promptly to face the intense flames emanating from the diesel tanker, which contained 22,000 liters and bore the registration number MUS 916 YF.
As the situation intensified with diesel forcefully gushing out due to a opened valve, the firefighters, showcasing exceptional skills, called for additional support. Another fire appliance promptly joined the efforts.
After an hour of relentless teamwork, the dedicated firefighters successfully extinguished the blazing fire. Regrettably, the aftermath of the fire resulted in significant damage to two shops and a football viewing center. The incident underscores the importance of swift emergency responses and collaborative efforts in mitigating disasters.