FUEL TANKER EXPLODES IN ONDO ON THE ORE-BENIN EXPRESSWAY

On the Ore-Benin Expressway at Ore, in the Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State, a fuel-filled tanker exploded on Wednesday.
It was the second similar explosion in the area in nine days; on January 31, a kerosene truck there also caught fire, scorching its driver, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.

The tanker driver on Wednesday survived the tragedy unharmed, and no lives were lost, according to Mr. Sikiru Alonge, Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Ore, who confirmed the two explosions.

He attributed the collision on the driver losing control of the car as a result of a blown tire.

Alonge stated that efforts were being made to extinguish the fire and that FRSC troops had been sent to the area in order to reduce traffic.

“A burst tire was the source of the explosion. This caused the tanker to sway and dump its contents into the road, which eventually caused an explosion and flames.

“The incident did not result in any fatalities. Since there isn’t a fire station in Ore, we’re working with the fire station in Ondo town to help put out the fire.

Alonge added, “We have also sent workers to the area to control traffic in an effort to reduce traffic congestion.

He recommended drivers to constantly keep their cars in good condition before driving them on the highway, especially those operating articulated trucks.