It was gathered that the petrol tanker was travelling through the town before it lost control and rammed into residential buildings. About 30 houses were completely razed in the explosion.

The Spokesperson of Kwara State Fire Service Hassan Adekunle has confirmed the incident.

Meanwhile, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in a statement by his media aide Rafiu Ajakaye said he was sad at the development.

“He sends his heartfelt condolences to the affected families. He urges them to take heart and remain calm as believers. He has also directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to quickly move in to determine the material loss.

“He also commends the Kwara state Fire Service and other responders for their efforts which helped to curtail the raging inferno and minimised the loss. Once again, he condoles with the victims and their families on this very sad incident, and prays to God Almighty to repose the souls of the deceased,” the statement read.