LASTMA, Lagos Fire Service Avert Major Fire After Diesel Tanker Accident on Liverpool Bridge

 LASTMA, Lagos Fire Service Avert Major Fire After Diesel Tanker Accident on Liverpool Bridge

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, on Tuesday averted a potential inferno following a diesel tanker accident on the Liverpool Bridge, inward Mile 2 corridor, Apapa.

An articulated Iveco tanker conveying diesel reportedly lost control and overturned on the bridge, causing extensive damage to the vehicle and leading to the spillage of large volumes of diesel on the roadway. The situation became more precarious as the highly combustible product flowed from the elevated bridge to the area beneath.

Eyewitness accounts indicated that some individuals attempted to scoop the spilled diesel, an action that further heightened the risk of fire and explosion.

Upon receiving distress alerts, LASTMA operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, dispersing the crowd and preventing further hazardous activity. The affected area was immediately cordoned off, while relevant emergency response agencies, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and security operatives, were promptly notified.

The timely intervention by LASTMA and other responders effectively neutralised the imminent fire risk, averting what could have resulted in severe human, environmental and infrastructural losses.

The tanker driver, who sustained serious injuries during the accident, was rescued by LASTMA officials and rushed to the General Hospital, Apapa, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.

To maintain order and safety, officers of the Nigeria Police Force from Area ‘B’ Command, Apapa, provided security support, assisting with crowd control and traffic regulation while emergency operations continued.

Meanwhile, an alternative empty tanker was deployed to transload the remaining diesel, and traffic was strategically diverted to the opposite carriageway to ensure public safety and ease congestion.

Commending the response, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, praised the professionalism, swift coordination and tactical efficiency of LASTMA personnel and other emergency responders, noting that their actions prevented another possible fire disaster.

Hon. Giwa also warned members of the public against scooping petroleum products during tanker accidents involving diesel or Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), stressing that such behaviour poses grave danger to lives, property and the environment.

The Lagos State Government, through LASTMA, reaffirmed its commitment to proactive traffic management, rapid emergency response and the protection of lives and critical infrastructure across the state.