Fuel tanker explodes on Benin-Ore expressway

A fuel-laden tanker, on Wednesday, exploded on the Benin-Ore expressway in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

It was the second of such explosions in the area in nine days as a kerosene tanker also burst into flames there on January 31.

The Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ore, Sikiru Alonge, who confirmed the latest explosion, said the tanker’s driver escaped unhurt, adding that no life was lost in the incident.

He blamed the accident on the loss of control of the tanker by the driver when it had a burst tyre.

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Alonge said efforts were ongoing to put out the fire, adding that FRSC personnel have been deployed to the area to ease traffic congestion.

“The explosion occurred because of a burst tyre. This made the tanker to wobble and spill its content on the road leading to flames and later, the explosion.

“There is no loss of life in the incident. We are collaborating with the Fire Station in Ondo town to help to put out the fire since there is no fire service station in Ore.

“We have also deployed our personnel to the area to control traffic so as to ease traffic congestion,” the FRSC official disclosed.

He urged motorists, especially drivers of articulated vehicles to always put their vehicles in good order before taking them to the highway.

The Star