Police warn Osun, Oyo residents against scooping fuel from tankers
OSOGBO, Nigeria — Assistant Inspector-General of Police Bassey Ewah, head of Zone XI Command Headquarters, has issued a warning to residents of Osun and Oyo States against the dangers of scooping petrol from overturned or accidented tankers.
The warning came in a press release distributed Monday, following a tanker fire in the Feesu area along the Iwo-Osogbo Express Road on September 17, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m. After receiving reports of the fire, the Divisional Police Officer from the Iwo Division promptly dispatched police personnel to the scene.
According to the statement, police officers secured the area and alerted the Fire Service, which intervened to prevent the situation from escalating further.
Ewah praised the efforts of the Osun State Police Command for their quick response and effective management of the incident, emphasizing their role in keeping the public at a safe distance from the burning tanker.
“Approaching accidented tankers to collect petrol or other petroleum products could expose individuals to life-threatening hazards, including fires, explosions, severe injuries, and fatalities,” Ewah warned. He referenced a tragic tanker incident in Benin City, Edo State, underscoring the risks involved in such actions.
The AIG urged residents to prioritize safety by steering clear of overturned tankers and refraining from attempting to collect spilled fuel, no matter the situation.
Ewah reaffirmed the Zone XI Command’s commitment to proactive policing and public safety, highlighting ongoing collaboration with emergency response agencies to avert avoidable tragedies. He appealed to the public to avoid dangerous practices around accidented fuel tankers.
