A serious disaster was averted in Jos, Plateau State, on Thursday after a tanker carrying over 15,000 liters of petrol lost control and spilled its contents along the busy Bauchi Road axis. The early-morning incident caused widespread panic among residents and commuters heading to work.
The tanker, reportedly en route to a filling station to offload fuel, lost control, resulting in a large spill of petrol on the road. Emergency responders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Fire Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the police, acted swiftly to contain the situation and prevent any escalation.
An eyewitness, Musa Abdullahi, praised the prompt action of the emergency teams. “The Bauchi Junction along Bauchi Road was temporarily closed after the tanker spilled fuel. The quick response of the Fire Service, FRSC, NSCDC, police, and other security agents prevented further damage,” Abdullahi said.
He added that motorists were directed to alternative routes while responders worked to manage the situation and ensure safety. “Their efforts were commendable, as the situation was brought under control swiftly,” he said.
The Public Education Officer of the FRSC in Plateau State, Peter Yakubu, confirmed the incident, emphasizing that the timely response of emergency teams helped avert a major catastrophe.
“Our men were alerted early this morning about a tanker that spilled fuel on Bauchi Road after the driver lost control. We immediately deployed personnel alongside the Fire Service and other emergency responders,” Yakubu explained.
He noted that the road was barricaded to prevent accidents or further incidents. “Thankfully, no lives were lost, and apart from the spillage, there was no other damage. We thank God for averting a disaster,” Yakubu said.
As of late morning, the affected section of Bauchi Road had been cleared and reopened to traffic. Residents and motorists resumed their activities without further disruption.
This incident underscores the importance of coordinated emergency response efforts in managing potentially hazardous situations and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
