Panic broke out in the early hours of Monday in the Ijora area of Lagos after a crane operating at the premises of Asiko Energy Holdings Limited toppled over, injuring at least three people and cutting off electricity supply to several communities in the Apapa-Iganmu axis.
The crane’s driver reportedly sustained a serious leg injury in the incident, with sources suggesting the injury could result in amputation.
The accident also damaged major electricity transmission lines supplying power to communities, including Badia, Olojowon, Gaskiya, and Sari-Iganmu.
Eyewitnesses said the crane suddenly lost balance, throwing the driver from the machine. The crane’s bucket reportedly detached, and its pole fell onto nearby electricity wires, damaging them.
The incident triggered panic among passersby and traders in the area, many of whom scrambled for safety to avoid being caught in the danger.
The injured victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they were receiving treatment as of the time of filing this report.
The exact cause of the accident remained unconfirmed, with witnesses offering conflicting accounts. While some alleged the driver may have fallen asleep at the controls, others attributed the incident to a possible mechanical fault.
Attempts to obtain an official response from the management of Asiko Energy Holdings Limited were unsuccessful, as officials reportedly declined to comment. However, a staff member identified as Mr Tayo said he was unaware of what caused the accident.
A senior police officer attached to the Badia Police Station confirmed the incident but disputed reports of any deaths.
“It is true that the incident happened, and our men were on the ground. I can confirm to you that nobody died in the incident. Those who recorded injuries have been taken to the hospital and treated,” the officer said.
The discrepancy in casualty figures could not be independently verified as of the time of filing this report.
Officials of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Security Corps (LNSC) and other paramilitary agencies were also present at the scene.
