LASTMA, Lagos Fire Service Avert Disaster as Truck Catches Fire Near Otedola Bridge

LASTMA, Lagos Fire Service Avert Disaster as Truck Catches Fire Near Otedola Bridge

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service have successfully averted a potential disaster after a truck carrying an empty container caught fire late Saturday night along the Secretariat inward Otedola Bridge corridor on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, swiftly contained a truck fire outbreak over the weekend along the Secretariat inward axis of Otedola Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, preventing what authorities described as a potentially catastrophic incident.

The late-night incident involved a Mack truck transporting an empty 20-foot container. Preliminary reports indicate that the truck suddenly burst into flames while in motion, posing an immediate danger to other road users and nearby infrastructure.

According to the agency, LASTMA officials quickly mobilised to the scene and prioritised the rescue of the truck driver, who escaped the inferno unharmed.

Recognising the volatile nature of the situation, particularly along the busy Otedola Bridge corridor, LASTMA operatives immediately activated emergency response protocols and worked closely with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to tackle the fire.

The coordinated intervention of both agencies led to the rapid extinguishing of the blaze, preventing its spread and averting what could have escalated into a major disaster.

Authorities said the swift response also enabled traffic officials to restore vehicular movement in the area within a short period, reducing disruption to motorists and commercial activities along the critical highway corridor.

Speaking on the development, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the operatives for their professionalism, bravery and composure while responding to the emergency.

Bakare-Oki reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the Lagos road network.

He also urged motorists to regularly inspect their vehicles, particularly mechanical and electrical components, noting that proper maintenance is essential in preventing unexpected vehicular emergencies.

The traffic management agency reiterated its resolve to maintain safety and efficiency across major roads in Lagos State through proactive incident management and collaboration with relevant emergency services.