Tragedy averted as tanker spills diesel in Lagos
A tragedy was averted on Wednesday after a diesel-laden tanker fell and spilled its content on the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway area of Lagos State, thereby sparking panic amongst residents of the area.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the incident happened in the early hours of the day as motorists hurried to work.
Photos of the incident obtained by our correspondent showed some residents scooping the diesel that had spread along the road.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Wednesday, the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Adebayo Taofiq, noted that the swift intervention of emergency responders brought the situation under control.
According to Taofiq, LASTMA officials cordoned off the area before the arrival of the fire service in a bid to protect lives and properties.
Taofiq said, “Earlier today, a fully laden diesel tanker experienced a spillage along the main carriageway of the expressway, posing an imminent threat to commuters, residents, and surrounding infrastructure.
“Demonstrating exemplary coordination and urgency, LASTMA officials, in synergy with other emergency response agencies, including the Lagos State Fire Service, promptly converged at the scene. Their rapid intervention facilitated the effective containment and mitigation of the hazardous situation, averting what could have been a major disaster.
“The affected zone was immediately cordoned off to protect lives and property, while LASTMA officials meticulously managed traffic flow to minimise disruptions and ensure the safety of all road users. This coordinated response successfully neutralised the risk of fire and environmental degradation.”
Reacting to the incident, Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, urged motorists to be safety conscious while using the expressway.
Giwa who spoke through Taofiq, expressed the state government’s commitment to ensuring compliance with traffic laws across the state.
“This incident highlights the indispensable need for all tanker operators to strictly adhere to traffic regulations and safety protocols.
“We implore all transport stakeholders to prioritise the safety of both lives and property. The Lagos State Government remains steadfast in enforcing compliance with all traffic laws to prevent avoidable mishaps,” he said.
