A 50,000-litre gasoline tanker overturned while making a turn at Otedola Bridge in Lagos State on Tuesday night, resulting in an explosion.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:18 p.m., although no casualties have been reported so far.
Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the Director-General of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), spoke to SaharaReporters, confirming that the agency has activated a multi-agency response plan to manage the overturned tanker and the ensuing fire.
“All hands are on deck to extinguish the flames. Motorists are advised to take alternative routes where possible,” he said.
He further explained, “We are working to contain the fire. The vehicle carrying gas overturned, which led to the incident. I believe it is a 50,000-litre tanker. However, the operation is still ongoing.”
This latest incident follows a devastating explosion at the same location on 28th June 2018, on Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
In that incident, a fuel-laden tanker lost control due to a brake failure, overturned, and spilled its contents on the road. The spilled fuel caught fire, resulting in a massive blaze that consumed several vehicles.
The explosion claimed at least 12 lives, with numerous others injured. Around 54 vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks, were burned. The fire caused significant traffic disruption and raised concerns about road safety and the regulation of fuel tankers.
The Otedola Bridge explosion remains one of Lagos’ most tragic road accidents due to the high number of casualties and the widespread damage it caused.
