FRSC man, nine others, die as tanker rams into market

Ten persons, including a presenter of the Special Marshal radio programme for the Federal Road Safety Commission in Osun State, Chief S.O. Adewale,  were killed  when a petrol tanker rammed into a market in Owena, near Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Wednesday.

Scores of others said to have been injured are  in nearby hospitals.

An eyewitness said the tanker was coming from the Ilesa end of the Akure/Ilesa Road.

It was gathered that the tanker’s brake failed, a few meters to the roadside market.

Some of the victims were said to be traders, artisans and drivers who parked on the road side.

The victims were taken to a hospital in Akure, where some of them were confirmed dead.

The tanker was still on the road at press time.

It was, however, not certain if the tanker driver has been arrested.

It was gathered that Adewale, who died on the spot, was making a purchase at Owena market when a fuel truck lost control and rammed into his car.

 His wife and son were injured. They were rushed to the emergency unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital in Ile-Ife.

The Sector Commander of the FRSC in Osun State,  Mohammed Husaini, said the accident involved three vehicles but only Adewale  died.

Tragedy was averted in Ekpoma, the administrative headquarters of Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, when a pterol-laden tanker spilled its content in front of the Ambrose Alli University.

Some soldiers, police and officials of the civil defence corps prevented what could have been a disaster .

They apprehended  those who came with jerry cans and basins to scoop the fuelin front of the university’s main gate.

There was traffic gridlock for some hours as motorists were told to avoid the accident scene.

The owner of the product, who identified himself as Mr. Ehiguese, said the truck was coming from Warri depot and  heading for Uromi in Esan North East Local Government Area.

He said the driver wanted to avoid a flooded area but was unaware of a ditch on the road.

Ehiguese thanked security operatives for their quick intervention.