The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has averted a potential midnight fire disaster following the overturning of a fully loaded Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker at Awoyaya, along the inward lane of the Lekki–Epe Expressway.
The incident occurred at about 2:00 a.m. when the articulated tanker reportedly lost balance and overturned while navigating the busy expressway, posing a grave threat to lives, property and the environment due to the highly flammable nature of its cargo.
Confirming the development, the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, said the agency’s swift intervention was crucial in preventing what could have escalated into a major inferno.
“Upon receiving a distress call, LASTMA’s Rescue and Recovery Unit was immediately deployed to the scene,” Adebayo said. “Our operatives promptly secured the area, established a safety perimeter and implemented comprehensive traffic control measures to eliminate further danger.”
He explained that the timely response helped deter fuel scoopers, prevent secondary accidents and forestall a possible fire outbreak. According to him, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service was also mobilised without delay and activated strict fire prevention and containment measures, including continuous monitoring to eliminate any risk of ignition.
“With all safety protocols firmly in place and no casualties recorded, vehicular movement was temporarily suspended along the affected axis before traffic was cautiously restored to ensure public safety,” he added.
Adebayo further disclosed that the PMS content of the fallen tanker was carefully trans-loaded into another empty 33,000-litre tanker under strict and professional supervision by emergency response personnel.
He cautioned tanker and articulated vehicle operators to exercise maximum caution, ensure proper vehicle maintenance and strictly comply with safety regulations, especially during night operations.
Adebayo also commended the seamless collaboration among emergency agencies at the scene, noting that the prompt and professional response of LASTMA operatives and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service was key to averting disaster.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, also praised the coordinated inter-agency effort and efficiency displayed in managing the incident, he said.
The guardian
