Fire Service Averts Another Fuel Tanker Disaster in Abuja
Two die in second truck accident
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Engr. Jaji Abduganiyu, played a pivotal role in preventing another potential disaster following Wednesday’s devastating fuel tanker explosion that claimed 10 lives and left many others injured.
Jaji’s swift actions helped avert what could have been an even greater tragedy. According to reports, as the Fire Service team was at the site of the Karu Bridge gas explosion on Thursday, they encountered another emergency—another truck carrying fertilizer had lost its brakes, overturned, and blocked the already congested highway.
The Fire Service boss confirmed that two people tragically lost their lives in this fresh accident, which occurred at the same location as Wednesday’s deadly explosion—the Karu Bridge on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway.
Jaji explained, “While responding to the latest incident, my team and I noticed a severe risk nearby. A fuel tanker, caught up in the aftermath of the previous accidents, had begun spilling its contents onto the hot asphalt under the scorching sun. The potential for an explosion was high, especially with other vehicles nearby that could have ignited the volatile fuel.”
Recognizing the immediate danger, Jaji immediately called for backup from the nearest fire station and directed his team to take swift action. They deployed a foam compound over the fuel spill, effectively containing the threat and preventing a catastrophic fire from breaking out.
“This quick and decisive action by my dedicated firefighters undoubtedly saved lives and prevented the situation from escalating into an even greater disaster,” the Controller General said.
Jaji expressed his deepest condolences to the victims and their families while calling for increased vigilance on the highways, particularly in high-risk zones. He stressed the importance of being prepared to respond rapidly to prevent further loss of life.
“Thanks to the expertise and professionalism of the Federal Fire Service, a second disaster was averted, and safety was restored to the accident site, bringing some relief to the harrowing situation,” Jaji added.
The Federal Fire Service remains committed to ensuring that such devastating incidents do not lead to worse consequences, continuing their rapid response to emergencies across the country.
