Fatal Tanker Crash Rocks Ibadan As Five People D!e Along Busy Iwo Road–Ojoo Expressway

At least five people have been confirmed dead following a fatal road accident involving a fully loaded 45,000-litre diesel tanker and several commercial vehicles in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the accident occurred on Saturday, October 17, at Aduloju Bus Stop, opposite Dominion City, along the busy Iwo Road–Ojoo Expressway.

Emergency responders said the victims comprised two men, including a commercial vehicle driver, and three female passengers.

Preliminary findings by the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) indicated that the tanker may have suffered brake failure while travelling at high speed, causing the driver to lose control of the heavy-duty vehicle.

The tanker reportedly swerved and crashed into several Nissan Micra commercial cars, crushing the vehicles and trapping occupants in the wreckage.

The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the fatalities and disclosed that the Commissioner of Police ordered the immediate deployment of officers to the scene to secure the area and prevent further danger.

Authorities were particularly concerned about potential secondary hazards, including a possible fuel-related explosion and looting at the accident scene.

Joint response teams from the Nigeria Police Force, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and OYRTMA worked together to manage traffic, rescue trapped occupants and remove the damaged vehicles from the road.

The incident caused disruption along the busy expressway as emergency personnel carried out rescue and recovery operations.

The suspected brake failure is among the preliminary findings, while further investigations may be required to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash.

The tragedy has once again drawn attention to road safety concerns involving heavy-duty vehicles, particularly the dangers posed by mechanical failures, excessive speed and loss of control on busy roads.

Motorists and transport operators are urged to ensure that their vehicles are properly maintained and roadworthy, while drivers of heavy-duty vehicles are expected to exercise caution to protect other road users.