By Usman Usman Garba
Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended the rapid and coordinated response of emergency agencies that averted a potential fire disaster involving a petrol tanker along the BUK-Gwarzo Road on Wednesday.
The near-tragedy unfolded close to the NYSC Secretariat Junction when a fully-loaded tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) lost balance while attempting to navigate into a filling station.
The precarious situation sparked panic among residents and motorists in the densely populated area, raising fears of a deadly explosion.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Governor Yusuf praised the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) RS1.2 Kano Sector Command, the Federal Fire Service, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, and the Kano Road Traffic Agency (KAROTA) for what he described as “prompt, professional, and life-saving intervention.”
“Their bravery and timely action not only prevented a disaster but also ensured the safety of lives and properties and restored normal traffic flow in a highly sensitive location,” the statement quoted the governor as saying.
Eyewitnesses said the tanker appeared to have lost control while making a turn into the station, tilting dangerously and drawing a crowd of onlookers. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, cordoning off the area and implementing precautionary measures to prevent ignition.
Governor Yusuf commended the synergy between the responding agencies, stressing that their collaboration played a critical role in avoiding what could have been a catastrophic fire incident.
He further urged petroleum tanker drivers and filling station operators across the state to adhere strictly to safety protocols during loading and offloading operations to avoid similar risks in the future.
The governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to prioritize public safety and said his government would continue to invest in strengthening emergency response mechanisms and enhancing inter-agency coordination.
“The lives and property of our people remain a top priority for this administration,” Yusuf said, assuring residents of the state’s readiness to respond effectively to emergencies.
No injuries or property damage were reported in the incident, which caused temporary traffic disruption before normalcy was restored by the combined efforts of the emergency teams.
