A group of students from Kwara State University, Malete, narrowly escaped death on Wednesday after the bus they were traveling in suddenly caught fire in Ilorin.

The incident happened around 7:54 a.m. along Shao Road near Sobi Barracks, as the students were heading to the university campus from Bovas Filling Station in the Akerebiata area.

The bus, a white 18-seater with registration number XUF134ZD, was completely engulfed in flames, leaving the vehicle burnt beyond recognition.

According to Hassan Adekunle, spokesperson of the Kwara State Fire Service, the fire started from a spark in the engine compartment, which quickly spread and consumed the entire bus. Fortunately, all the passengers managed to escape unharmed before the fire got worse.

“The fire crew responded swiftly and successfully put out the fire,” Adekunle confirmed. “But sadly, the bus was completely destroyed.”

The Director of the State Fire Service, Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, sympathized with the bus owner and used the opportunity to warn road users about the importance of routine vehicle checks before setting out on any trip.

“This unfortunate incident could have ended in loss of lives. We urge all motorists to regularly inspect their vehicles to avoid such dangerous occurrences,” he advised.

Thanks to the quick response of emergency services, a tragic disaster was averted.