A major tragedy was prevented on Monday morning after a fuel-laden tanker overturned in the Takalafiya community of Lapai Local Government Area, Niger State. The tanker, which was travelling from Lagos to Kano, lost control and fell at about 8:00 a.m., causing panic among residents.
According to eyewitnesses, officials of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBUL) Fire Service and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) responded swiftly to the scene. Their prompt action helped to stop a potential fire explosion, which could have caused widespread damage to lives and property.
Members of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Lapai Chapter, also joined the rescue efforts. They worked with emergency responders to secure the area, recover part of the spilled fuel, and ensure strict safety compliance. Some of the fuel was carefully transferred into containers to reduce environmental risks and prevent further spillage.
Speaking with Mediaplusng.com, residents of the area praised the swift coordination between the fire service, NSCDC, and NUPENG teams. They said the quick intervention saved the community from what could have been a devastating inferno.
As of the time of this report, no casualties have been recorded, and normal traffic movement has resumed in the area. Authorities have, however, advised motorists to drive carefully and report any tanker accidents promptly to prevent similar incidents.
