One person has died while several others sustained injuries after a commercial bus carrying 21 passengers somersaulted and caught fire along the Oko-Olowo Expressway in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The accident occurred around Iye-Maja Junction on Sunday after the bus, with registration number DTH840SA, reportedly developed a punctured tyre while in motion, causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle.

The Kwara State Fire Service said it received a distress call about the incident and deployed firefighters to the scene, where they arrived at about 6:35 p.m. and immediately commenced emergency operations.

The passengers were evacuated from the vehicle, while those who sustained injuries were taken to hospital for medical attention.

The Fire Service confirmed that one person died in the crash and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased while wishing those injured a speedy recovery.

The Chief Fire Officer of the state, Mr Alabi Muhammed, also commiserated with the family and urged motorists, particularly commercial vehicle operators, to ensure that their vehicles were properly maintained and roadworthy before embarking on journeys.

Muhammed stressed the importance of regularly inspecting critical vehicle components, including tyres, braking systems and electrical systems, to reduce the risk of avoidable accidents.

He also advised motorists to remain cautious while driving on highways and urged members of the public to promptly report emergencies to the appropriate response agencies.

The Kwara State Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to responding promptly to emergencies and protecting lives and property across the state.