LASTMA, Fire Service Avert Major Inferno After Diesel Tanker Crash On Liverpool Bridge

A major fire disaster was narrowly avoided on Monday after operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, swiftly responded to a diesel tanker accident on Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2, Lagos.

The incident involved an articulated Iveco tanker (registration number RBC 98 XX) conveying diesel, which reportedly lost control and toppled on the bridge, causing extensive damage to the vehicle and resulting in the massive spillage of diesel across the roadway.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, said the situation posed a grave fire risk, particularly as the highly flammable product spilled from the elevated bridge to the area beneath.

Giwa disclosed that some individuals attempted to scoop the spilled diesel, further heightening the danger of an explosion or inferno. However, LASTMA officials promptly arrived at the scene, dispersed the crowd, and cordoned off the affected area to prevent escalation.

According to him, an inter-agency emergency response was immediately activated, with security agencies and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service mobilised to contain the situation. Their timely intervention successfully neutralised the risk of combustion and prevented what could have become a devastating fire outbreak with severe human, environmental, and infrastructural consequences.

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

Officers of the Nigeria Police Force, Area ‘B’ Command, Apapa, also provided security support, ensuring effective crowd control, traffic regulation, and overall safety at the scene.

An empty tanker was later deployed to transload the remaining diesel, while LASTMA officials diverted traffic to an alternative route to ease congestion and maintain order.

Giwa commended the professionalism, speed, and coordination of all emergency responders involved, noting that their actions prevented another tragic tanker-related fire disaster in Lagos.

He further warned members of the public against scooping petroleum products during accidents, describing the act as reckless and life-threatening.

“Such behaviour poses serious risks to lives, property, and the environment,” he cautioned. (NAN)