Written by Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin
A truck loaded with a top-of-the-line engine (PMS) reportedly exploded and killed at least six people in the early morning hours in Jebba, the Moro state government area of Kwara state.
A gas tanker that was said to have traveled through the ancient city lost control and spilled its contents as it crashed into apartment buildings.
An eyewitness said the incident resulted in huge explosions that also burned over 30 houses and shops.
When we contacted him, the spokesman of the state fire service, Hassan Adekunle, confirmed the incident, promising to update our correspondent in the next hour.
Meanwhile, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq sympathized with the families of those who lost their lives and property, describing the development as devastating and sad.
In a statement, media aide Mallam AbdulRazaq Rafiu Ajakaye said that “the governor is very saddened by this event, especially due to the loss of life and property and agricultural land worth one million naira.
“He extends his sincere condolences to the affected families. He invites them to take heart and remain calm as believers. He also ordered the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to move in quickly to determine the material loss.
“He also commends the Kwara State Fire Service and others responsible for their efforts to help reduce the raging hell and minimize losses. He once again expresses his condolences to the victims and their families for this very sad event and prays to Almighty God to rest the souls of the deceased. “