Popular on-air personality Adejumo Adekunle has raised concerns over what he described as a dangerous fueling practice among operators of Volkswagen commercial buses, popularly known as “Vana-gon,” in Port Harcourt.
Adekunle sounded the alarm after boarding one of the buses during a trip within the city, where he said he noticed a jerrycan filled with fuel placed behind the driver and carelessly strapped to the back of the vehicle.
According to the media personality, the discovery raised serious safety concerns, recalling warnings previously issued by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) about drivers bypassing official fuel tanks and resorting to storing petrol in jerrycans inside or around the buses.
He warned that the practice could easily lead to disaster if a spark occurs, noting that an ignition from a mobile phone, friction, or even a minor impact could trigger an explosion. He also highlighted the potential health risks for passengers who inhale fuel fumes during daily commutes.
Adekunle said he quietly took a photograph of the situation and decided to speak out publicly to draw attention to the issue.
The broadcaster called on the Federal Road Safety Corps Rivers State Command to intensify enforcement against such practices, urging commuters to remain vigilant and avoid boarding buses carrying fuel in jerrycans.
He also encouraged the public to report such incidents and hold drivers accountable to prevent possible tragedies.
Adekunle said he intends to further discuss the issue on air to raise awareness and push for stricter monitoring of commercial transport operators in the state.
