The Kwara State Fire Service prevented a major fire disaster after a fuel tanker spilled petrol at Sabo Market, Orile Igbon, along the Ogbomoso Highway in Oyo State.

The incident happened on Tuesday at around 8:27 PM in a town close to the Kwara State border. A fuel tanker carrying 33,000 liters of petrol had a tire burst, causing a spill and leading to a fire outbreak.

Upon receiving a distress call, the Kwara State Fire Service quickly arrived at the scene to contain the situation. According to the fire service spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle, firefighters worked swiftly to prevent further damage. They managed to transfer over 10,000 liters of petrol into another tanker, reducing the risk of a bigger fire. Thankfully, no lives were lost, and no injuries were reported.

Before the Kwara fire team arrived, the Oyo State Fire Service, Ogbomoso branch, had already responded to the emergency. However, their personnel were attacked with stones by some individuals at the scene. Their fire truck was badly damaged, including a shattered windscreen, forcing them to take shelter at Owode Police Station.

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service condemned the attack on firefighters and urged the public to allow emergency responders to do their job. He warned that anyone caught attacking fire service personnel would face legal action. Firefighters risk their lives to protect people and property, and any violence against them is unacceptable.

The incident highlights the importance of public cooperation during emergencies to ensure safety and prevent further harm.