The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG in charge of Zone XI Command Headquarters, Osogbo, Bassey Ewah, has warned residents of Osun and Oyo States against scooping petrol from overturned or accidented tankers, citing the risk of fires, explosions and fatalities.
Ewah issued the warning in a press release on Monday, signed by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ojedele Olanrewaju Tunji, following a tanker fire incident at Feesu along the Iwo–Osogbo Express Road in Osun State.
The incident occurred on September 17, 2026, at about 11:30 a.m., prompting the Divisional Police Officer, DPO, Iwo Division, to mobilise police personnel to the scene after receiving information about the fire.
According to the statement, the officers promptly secured the affected area and alerted the Fire Service to contain the blaze and prevent further danger.
The AIG commended personnel of the Osun State Police Command for their swift response, proactive handling of the situation and efforts to keep members of the public at a safe distance from the burning tanker.
He warned that approaching accidented tankers to collect petrol or other petroleum products could expose people to life-threatening hazards, including fires, explosions, severe injuries and multiple fatalities.
The police also referenced a tragic tanker-related incident in Benin City, Edo State, as a reminder of the dangers associated with scooping fuel from accidented tankers.
“I urge residents to prioritise their safety by staying away from overturned tankers and avoiding attempts to collect spilled petroleum products, regardless of the circumstances surrounding an accident,” the statement added.
Ewah assured residents of Osun and Oyo States of Zone XI Command’s continued commitment to proactive policing, public safety and collaboration with other emergency response agencies to prevent avoidable tragedies.
He further appealed to members of the public to shun dangerous practices around accidented fuel tankers and prioritise their safety in such situations.
