A major fire disaster was averted on Wednesday in Lagos State, after a gas laden tanker overturned at Anthony Oke, along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway.
It took the intervention of emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to prevent what could have been a catastrophe.
The tanker blocked the main road, leading to heavy traffic gridlock.
The tanker driver sustained hand injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofiq, said the truck has been evacuated.
“The Lagos State Fire Service, LASEMA Response Unit (LRU) along with other emergency responders, was also mobilized to the site as they diligently implemented safety measures to mitigate any potential hazards. Their quick and coordinated response has been crucial in containing the situation and preventing further complications,” he said.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said vehicular movement has been restored.
“LASTMA personnel with the support of LRU have successfully evacuated the tanker and its loaded gas cylinder from the road, restoring vehicular movement towards Gbagada, Iyana-Oworo, Car Wash, Ifako, and Toll Gate,” Bakare-Oki said.
According to him, “the safety of our citizens remains our top priority, and we are grateful for the cooperation of everyone involved.”