The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) on Monday averted what could have been a catastrophic fire outbreak after a gas-laden tanker overturned on the main carriageway at Chisco, inward Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to preliminary reports, the incident occurred when the driver of a white Howo tanker truck, fully loaded with compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinders, lost control, causing the vehicle to overturn on the busy expressway.
Given the highly flammable nature of the cargo, the situation posed an immediate risk to lives and property. LASTMA personnel, who arrived swiftly at the scene, cordoned off the area and secured both the overturned truck and the gas cylinders to prevent leakage or ignition.
The agency’s Rescue and Emergency Unit immediately activated a multi-agency response involving the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lekki Concession Company (LCC), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). The coordinated effort ensured that the situation was contained and normalcy restored.
LASTMA General Manager, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who was present at the scene, commended the professionalism and courage displayed by his officers and partner agencies.
“Our officers acted with precision and professionalism, securing the environment and preventing what could have been an unspeakable tragedy,” he said. “The recovery was carried out using heavy-duty cranes and under strict safety protocols.”
He added that additional personnel were deployed to ease traffic congestion, with motorists temporarily diverted through the new coastal road and reconnected via Bar Beach until the road was reopened to normal traffic.
Bakare-Oki also cautioned tanker and truck drivers to strictly adhere to speed limits, maintain their vehicles, and exercise caution, especially when transporting flammable products such as gas, petrol, diesel, and kerosene.
Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to public safety, the LASTMA boss said the agency would continue to work with other emergency and enforcement bodies to promote traffic discipline, safety, and swift emergency response across the State.
