A blazing fire emanating from a diesel tanker on Saturday destroyed two shops and a football viewing centre in the Ilorin metropolis, Kwara state.
The Tribune gathered that the fire incident happened at about 10:47 a.m. at Magaji Aare quarters, Ajegunle, in the Idi-Ape area of the Ilorin East local government council area.
It was gathered that the fire originated from a pumping machine being used to syphon diesel from a tanker lorry into a mast belonging to one of the telecommunications companies.
According to the Head of Department (HOD), Media and Publicity of the state Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, on behalf of the director of the agency, said that the total estimated property saved was N145.2 million, while a total estimated property lost was summed up to be N34.6 million.
He said that the firefighters arrived on time to face a blazing diesel tanker containing 22,000 litres with registration number MUS 916 YF.
“On December 30, 2023, at approximately 10:47 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service swiftly responded to a fire emergency at Magaji Aare quarters, Ajegunle, in the Idi-Ape area of Ilorin East Local Government.
“The firefighters, equipped with their fire appliance, arrived promptly to face a blazing diesel tanker containing 22,000 litres with registration number MUS 916 YF.
“The situation escalated as the tanker’s valve opened, causing diesel to gush out forcefully.
“Undeterred, the firemen, demonstrating their exceptional firefighting skills, called for additional support, and another fire appliance quickly joined the effort.
“After a relentless hour of collective effort, the dedicated team successfully extinguished the raging fire.
“Upon investigation, the tanker driver revealed to the Fire Service media team that the fire originated from the pumping machine used to syphon diesel for the ‘Collo site’ mast, which serves all networks.
“The Nigeria Police of the ‘C’ Division were present at the scene to maintain order and control any potential mob disturbance.
“The community’s cooperation played a crucial role in enabling the firemen to work efficiently and effectively in overcoming the challenging situation.
“Unfortunately, the ensuing fire resulted in damage to two shops and a football viewing centre.
“Therefore, the Director, Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, urged the general public to always play safe especially during this period and not to hesitate to call the fire brigade on time whenever there is any fire emergency in their areas, as this would save lives and properties of people in the state.”
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