Panic gripped motorists and residents around Iyana-Isolo, inward Oshodi, Lagos, on Sunday when a petrol tanker loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) exploded after overturning in motion.

 

The incident, which occurred along the busy corridor, triggered a massive fire outbreak that engulfed at least four other trucks parked nearby. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, noting that the inferno could have escalated into a devastating disaster but for the rapid intervention of emergency responders.

 

 

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) promptly mobilised first responders in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, police divisions from Aswani, Ilasa, and Mushin, as well as the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps.

 

According to LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, personnel cordoned off the affected road, diverted traffic away from the danger zone, and worked alongside firefighters to bring the flames under control. Reinforcements from adjoining zones were also deployed to strengthen the operation.

 

Bakare-Oki expressed relief that no lives were lost in the incident, attributing the successful outcome to the prompt coordination among agencies on the ground.

 

“LASTMA is committed to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring safe and sustainable traffic management across Lagos State,” he said.

 

The LASTMA boss, however, warned tanker and heavy-duty truck drivers against reckless speeding, which preliminary findings linked to the cause of the accident. He urged operators of articulated vehicles to exercise greater caution on highways to avoid preventable disasters.

 

Bakare-Oki further advised residents to use the agency’s toll-free hotline (080000527862) to report traffic emergencies, assuring that LASTMA remains adequately equipped to respond swiftly to incidents.