Dr Olubunmi Aderibigbe, a leading burn expert at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, UITH, and member Nigerian Burn Injuries Society, has strongly warned members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, to be conscious of rising cases of fire incidents both on Nigerian roads and in residential areas.
The Nigerian Burn Injuries Society member, while addressing the union members on Thursday, expressed deep concern over the increasing number of lives and property lost to preventable fire outbreaks.
He recalled witnessing a burned fuel tanker on his way from Ilorin to Ibadan recently, describing the experience as a reminder of the dangers associated with mishandling petroleum products.
“Two years ago, many lives were lost and millions of naira worth of property were destroyed in road accidents involving fire here along Airport Road in Ilorin.
“Fire incidents do not discriminate. They destroy lives, families and livelihoods,” Dr Aderibigbe stated.
He noted that fire prevention is no longer the sole responsibility of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Fire Service or medical emergency teams but a collective concern for drivers, transport operators, and all road users.
Dr Aderibigbe, strongly cautioned drivers against carrying extra petrol in their cars, describing the trend as extremely dangerous.
“We have lost many lives simply because people insist on moving around with fuel inside their vehicles,” he stated.
“Safety first. If you are alive, you can conduct your business. Let us stop carrying extra fuel.”
He also urged Nigerians who rely heavily on power generators to stop storing petrol in their homes, warning that many domestic fire incidents are linked to such practices.
“Stop buying fuel in jerrycans for home storage. Avoid using phone lights when loading fuel into your vehicles or generators. Petrol is highly inflammable,” he warned.
Reiterating the dual nature of fire, he said, “As useful as fire and light are, they can be dangerous and destructive when they escape control. Avoid fire crises at all cost.”
He encouraged all transporters to ensure their vehicles are equipped with functional fire extinguishers, adding that preparedness is key to minimizing damage during emergencies.
The UITH expert disclosed that 441 Nigerians lost their lives to road-related fire incidents in 2024, attributing the majority to human factors such as negligence, speeding, worn-out tyres, and unsafe handling of petroleum products.
He also cautioned against the dangerous practice of rushing to scoop fuel from fallen tankers, saying; “If a tanker falls, run away from the scene. Fuel is extremely dangerous. Your safety matters most.”
Dr Aderibigbe explained the “fire triangle”, heat, oxygen, and fuel, emphasizing that fire only occurs when these three elements interact.
“We must do everything within our power to keep these factors apart,” he told the audience.
He concluded by urging all members of the NURTW to prioritize safety in all aspects of their work. “Accidents are not planned. Fire does not offer a second chance. Let us protect ourselves, our passengers, and our homes.”