A tanker driver has been commended for his quick response after reportedly detaching a burning trailer from his vehicle and steering the danger away from a crowd, filling stations and nearby homes in Iwo, Osun State.
The incident occurred on Thursday at Feesu Junction, shortly after the tanker had discharged fuel at a petrol station opposite Lado Filling Station.
Eyewitnesses said flames suddenly broke out from the tanker, causing panic among residents and motorists in the busy area.
The driver reportedly responded by uncoupling the tractor head from the burning trailer before moving the vehicle away from the crowd and surrounding facilities, potentially preventing the fire from spreading to other areas.
Bystanders had reportedly started gathering at the scene to observe the incident, heightening concerns that the situation could develop into a major disaster because of the nearby filling stations and residential buildings.
Usain Taoreed, an eyewitness who observed the incident from Odo-Ori Market, praised the driver’s response.
“He acted fast and moved the risk away from people and the stations,” Taoreed said.
No injuries have so far been reported in connection with the incident.
The driver has subsequently received praise from residents and social media users, with some hailing him as a hero and describing him as “the best driver of the year.”
The incident has also raised fresh concerns about emergency response and safety measures around filling stations and other facilities involved in fuel handling, particularly in densely populated areas.
The cause of the fire, however, remains unknown.
As of the time of filing this report, the driver’s identity had not been publicly disclosed, while authorities had not issued an official statement or provided information on any investigation into the incident.
More details are expected as authorities determine the cause of the fire and examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Residents praise brave driver after daring tanker escape
A driver has been hailed for his quick thinking after reportedly detaching the head of a fuel tanker from its burning body.
What would you have done in such a situation? #alhajidubai #SWAGUU #burnaboyxnfl pic.twitter.com/Ql9i7CbU2c
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