Lastma Prevents Major Fire Disaster as Gas Tanker Overturns in Victoria Island
In a swift and coordinated emergency response, operatives of 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 Howo white tanker, fully loaded with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinders, lost control and overturned on the busy expressway. The volatile nature of the product posed an immediate danger to lives and property, prompting urgent intervention from emergency responders.
Upon arrival, LASTMA officers quickly cordoned off the area and secured the overturned truck and its CNG tanks to prevent leakage or explosion. Recognizing the magnitude of the threat, the LASTMA Rescue and Emergency Unit 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).
Through this coordinated effort, the potential disaster was successfully contained, and normalcy was restored within a short time.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who was at the scene, praised the professionalism and courage of his officers and partner agencies. He disclosed that the overturned tanker was recovered using heavy-duty cranes and recovery equipment mobilized to the site.
“Our officers displayed remarkable precision and professionalism in managing the situation. Their prompt action prevented what could have been an unspeakable tragedy. We ensured the recovery process followed the highest safety standards,” Bakare-Oki said.
He added that additional LASTMA personnel were deployed to manage traffic during the recovery operation. While the main carriageway was temporarily closed from Chisco to Victoria Island, motorists were diverted through the new coastal road and reconnected via Bar Beach until the road was reopened.
The LASTMA boss used the opportunity to caution truck drivers and operators of vehicles transporting flammable materials to strictly adhere to road safety regulations, observe speed limits, and maintain their vehicles in good condition.
He stressed that transporting hazardous products such as gas, petrol, diesel, and kerosene requires utmost care to prevent accidents that could result in loss of lives and property.
Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safety, Bakare-Oki assured that LASTMA, in collaboration with other emergency and enforcement agencies, will continue to uphold the highest standards of traffic management and emergency response in line with the vision of a safer and more resilient Lagos.
