Tragedy struck once again in Ibadan over the weekend following the explosion of another petrol tanker, which resulted in the loss of property valued in millions of naira.
The incident, which caused panic and distress among local traders, occurred near Lead City University at the Toll Gate area of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at approximately 2:45 pm.
Eyewitnesses reported that a shop stocked with computer sets worth millions was completely consumed by the flames.
Additionally, several cars and motorcycles parked by the roadside were destroyed.
According to a source, the tanker driver and his assistant were fortunate to escape the explosion unharmed.
Responders from the Oyo State Fire Service, assisted by personnel from the Federal Fire Service, arrived at the scene to contain the blaze and prevent further spread.
One of the affected shop owners, who declined to disclose her identity, recounted the moment the fire started: “I just heard a bang from outside. Initially, I mistook it for a gunshot.”
“Before I realised what was happening, the atmosphere had been enveloped with thick smoke,” she added.
“Calls were put through to the Fire Services. But before they arrived, the deed had been done. I have lost everything to the inferno. I don’t know where to start again.”
