LASTMA Averts Midnight Fire Disaster as PMS Tanker Overturns at Awoyaya on Lekki–Epe Expressway

LASTMA Averts Midnight Fire Disaster as PMS Tanker Overturns at Awoyaya on Lekki–Epe Expressway

Lagos, Nigeria — A potential midnight fire disaster was successfully averted on the Lekki–Epe Expressway after operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) swiftly intervened in an accident involving a fully loaded Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker that overturned at Awoyaya in the early hours of Tuesday.

The incident occurred at about 2:00 a.m. along the inward carriageway of the busy Lekki–Epe Expressway when the articulated tanker reportedly lost balance and fell, spilling its highly flammable contents and posing a serious threat to lives, property and the environment.

Given the volatile nature of PMS and the strategic importance of the corridor, the situation was considered extremely dangerous, with a high risk of fire outbreak if not promptly contained.

Upon receiving a distress alert, LASTMA’s Rescue and Recovery Unit was immediately deployed to the scene. The operatives swiftly cordoned off the affected area, established a safety perimeter, and implemented traffic control measures to prevent secondary accidents and restrict access by fuel scoopers.

The prompt intervention effectively prevented ignition, controlled the situation, and forestalled what could have escalated into a major inferno.

In a coordinated response, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service was also mobilised and promptly activated fire prevention and containment protocols, including continuous monitoring to eliminate any ignition risk.

With no casualties recorded, vehicular movement along the axis was temporarily halted as a precautionary measure before traffic was cautiously restored after the situation was brought under control.

Subsequently, the PMS was carefully trans-loaded into an empty 33,000-litre tanker under strict supervision and meticulous safety scrutiny by emergency response officials.

Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, commended the professionalism and rapid response of LASTMA operatives and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, describing the inter-agency collaboration as timely and effective.

LASTMA, meanwhile, cautioned tanker and articulated vehicle operators to exercise maximum caution, ensure proper vehicle maintenance and strictly comply with safety regulations, especially during night operations, to prevent avoidable accidents and protect critical public infrastructure.

The development was confirmed in a statement signed by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA.