Tragedy struck on Tuesday as a petrol-laden tanker lost control along the busy Beere–Oje road in Ibadan, leaving an unspecified number of people dead and several others injured.
The accident occurred in the densely populated Beere–Oje axis, an area known for heavy human and commercial activities involving traders, artisans, and commuters.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the tanker, reportedly coming from the Bode area, suffered brake failure before crashing into people and property along its path.
“Three people died. The truck had brake failure when it got to Beere. The driver was crying because he was not happy with the situation,” an eyewitness said.
The source added that the tanker rammed into a tricycle shortly after it dropped off a passenger.
“Before leaving the spot, the truck hit the tricycle. Three people died, one person broke his back, and two others lost their legs,” the eyewitness recounted.
The incident reportedly occurred about an hour after officials of the Oyo State enforcement team had carried out an operation in the area to enforce the ban on street trading.
Officials of the Oyo State Fire Service, who responded to the emergency, confirmed the severity of the crash and the number of casualties recorded at the scene.
“We received a call that there was a petrol tanker accident at the Oje axis, and we responded immediately. On arrival, we discovered that the accident was fatal, with many casualties,” a fire service official said.
He added that emergency responders had been working to secure the area and assist victims.
“We have been trying to keep the area safe for those who are uninjured and to manage those who are injured. So far, about three injured persons have been attended to,” he stated.
The official also warned against roadside trading, describing it as a major risk to public safety. “My advice is that people should vacate the streets. Selling by the roadside is not safe and should be avoided to prevent incidents like this,” he said.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of casualties, while investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
