45,000-litre fuel tanker overturns in Lagos
Tanker Accident Contained by Emergency Services in Epe
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has successfully managed a tanker accident involving a truck transporting 45,000 liters of Premium Motor Spirit. The incident occurred on Ijako Road, leading toward Oke Oso along the Ajah Expressway in Epe on Friday.
According to LASEMA, the accident took place when a Mack tanker reportedly overturned while ascending Ijako Hill due to a mechanical failure. Emergency services received an alert at 11:32 a.m. and dispatched the Whales Team from their Epe base, which arrived at the scene just four minutes later.
Initial investigations suggested that the tanker’s propeller detached from its joint while climbing the hill, resulting in a loss of momentum that led to the vehicle overturning. One of the compartments of the tanker was found to be leaking fuel, prompting emergency personnel to initiate containment and safety procedures immediately.
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed that there were no reported fatalities or injuries. Prior to LASEMA’s arrival, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, based at Oke Oso Station, had begun containment measures to prevent a fire outbreak and mitigate any environmental hazards.
The operation is being coordinated under the Incident Command System (ICS), with cooperation from several agencies, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and representatives from the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers.
LASEMA indicated that the multi-agency response is essential for securing the area, safeguarding motorists, and preventing potential secondary incidents. Traffic management measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of drivers while maintaining clear access for emergency responders.
To facilitate the safe transfer of petroleum products, an empty tanker has been mobilized to assist in the situation before recovery operations begin. Oke-Osanyintolu commended the quick response and professional handling of the incident by emergency personnel.
He reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring public safety through effective disaster-risk management and adherence to internationally recognized emergency response protocols.
Motorists are advised to cooperate with traffic officials and avoid the vicinity of the accident to enable responders to perform their duties without obstruction. LASEMA indicated that further updates will be provided as the operation progresses and encouraged residents to call their toll-free emergency numbers, 112 or 767, in case of emergencies.
