The Edo State Government, on Sunday morning, swiftly averted what could have been a catastrophic disaster involving a petrol-laden tanker on the outskirts of Benin City, the State capital.
The incident involved two heavy-duty vehicles, one of which was a petrol tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Though the tanker did not overturn, it sustained a significant leakage following a collision, resulting in the uncontrolled discharge of fuel.
The immediate vicinity became saturated with the strong stench of petrol, heightening fears of a potential explosion that could have endangered the lives of hundreds of residents and passersby.
Eyewitnesses reported that, alarmingly, some individuals began attempting to scoop fuel from the leaking tanker, further compounding the danger in the area.
Upon receiving a distress alert, senior officials from Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration responded without delay. They promptly mobilized the Federal Fire Service, the Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EDOSEMA), and other relevant disaster response units to the scene.
Security agencies swiftly cordoned off the affected area, restricted access, and diverted vehicular traffic to prevent ignition sources and safeguard the public.
Efforts are currently underway to safely transload the flammable contents of the compromised tanker into another vehicle, after which clearance operations will be carried out to reopen the road.
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