The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has averted a potential fire disaster following the overturning of a petrol tanker along the inward carriageway of the Lekki–Epe Expressway at Awoyaya in the early hours of Tuesday.
The incident, which occurred at about 2:00 a.m., involved a fully loaded articulated tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). The tanker reportedly lost balance and overturned while navigating the busy expressway, posing a serious threat to lives, property, and the environment due to the highly flammable nature of its contents.
According to LASTMA, its Rescue and Recovery Unit swiftly responded to a distress call and deployed operatives to the accident scene. The officials immediately cordoned off the area, implemented comprehensive traffic control measures, and commenced recovery operations to prevent further hazards.
The agency noted that the prompt response helped to stop fuel scoopers from accessing the spilled product, prevented secondary accidents, and eliminated the risk of a fire outbreak.
In a coordinated response, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also mobilised to the location and activated fire prevention and containment protocols, including continuous monitoring to avert ignition.
Emergency responders temporarily restricted vehicular movement along the affected section of the expressway to facilitate safety operations. Traffic was later restored after critical measures were put in place and authorities confirmed that no casualty was recorded.
Officials also supervised the safe transloading of the fuel into another empty 33,000-litre tanker under strict monitoring to prevent spillage or fire hazards.
The agency advised tanker drivers and operators of articulated vehicles to prioritise safety by ensuring proper vehicle maintenance and strict compliance with traffic and safety regulations, especially during night operations.
Commending the coordinated emergency response, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, praised LASTMA operatives and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service for their professionalism and swift intervention in averting a potential disaster.
The statement was issued by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA.
