Lagos: Midnight tanker crash on Lekki–Epe expressway- Fire disaster narrowly averted
Lagos Emergency Services Prevent Major Fire Disaster
LAGOS, Nigeria — Authorities successfully averted a potentially catastrophic fire early Sunday after a tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) overturned on the inward lane of the Lekki–Epe Expressway at Awoyaya.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m., when the tanker, reportedly carrying tens of thousands of liters of PMS, lost control in a busy area, posing a significant threat to motorists, nearby properties, and the surrounding environment.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) quickly deployed its Rescue and Recovery Unit to the scene. Responding promptly, officials cordoned off the area, implemented traffic diversions, and prevented unauthorized individuals from approaching the tanker. Their swift actions were instrumental in averting what could have escalated into a severe fire.
“The tanker was fully loaded, and the risk of ignition was extremely high,” a LASTMA spokesperson stated. “Our team acted decisively to secure the area and manage the flow of vehicles, ensuring that no lives were endangered.”
In addition, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service arrived shortly after, setting up fire prevention measures and maintaining constant surveillance of the tanker for any signs of leakage or combustion. Fortunately, no casualties were reported during the incident.
To mitigate further risks, emergency personnel carefully transferred the fuel into an empty 33,000-liter tanker under strict supervision.
Traffic on the affected stretch was temporarily halted but gradually resumed once safety measures were firmly established.
Authorities are advising tanker operators and drivers of heavy vehicles to conduct thorough maintenance of their vehicles, adhere to speed limits, and exercise caution during night-time operations on busy highways.
Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, praised the coordinated efforts of LASTMA and the Fire and Rescue Service, highlighting their professional response that prevented a serious disaster and ensured the safety of lives and property.
