Tragedy struck on Saturday along the Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos Expressway as a gas tanker explosion claimed the life of one individual, leaving six others injured and resulting in the destruction of six vehicles.

According to Florence Okpe, spokesperson for the Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the incident occurred around 4:10 pm at Ita Osin. The deceased, suspected to be the motorboy of the gas-laden tanker, was trapped in the flames.

The accident was attributed to brake failure, causing the truck to veer out of control and collide with a roadside culvert before erupting in flames. The inferno quickly spread, engulfing five additional vehicles and two nearby shops.

Okpe provided details on the vehicles involved, including registration numbers: AAN544 YC (NISSAN), GDB841XR (MICRA), LSD993 CY (NISSAN), T23771 LA (SINO TRUCK), and a HONDA CRV with no visible registration number.

Mechanical deficiency, specifically brake failure, was identified as the suspected cause of the crash. Prompt response from the fire service helped contain the blaze and prevent further accidents.

The deceased was taken to the State General Hospital morgue in Abeokuta, while the injured victims received medical attention. Fatai Adefala, Director of the Ogun State Fire Service, confirmed ongoing efforts to clear the wreckage of the burnt tanker at the scene.