Tanker explosion in Lagos kills two, injures three

A gas-laden tanker explosion on Otedola Bridge, Lagos, claimed two lives and left three others injured on Tuesday, causing widespread panic among residents and motorists.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed the casualty figures in a statement, noting that the inferno destroyed 12 vehicles, eight tricycles, and a building.

LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that the injured victims were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

The statement says emergency responders, including LASEMA’s Tiger Response Team, were swiftly deployed to the scene to contain the fire. Authorities had cordoned off the affected area and urged motorists to seek alternative routes.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), also confirmed the incident in a statement on X, revealing that the fire extended to nearby structures, including a church, a residential building, and a mechanic workshop near CMD Road.

“Fire rescue teams are actively working to extinguish the blaze and manage the situation,” the statement read. “Recovery efforts are ongoing, but the incident has led to a total blockade of Otedola Under Bridge, restricting movement in and out of the area.”

LASTMA further cautioned motorists against attempting to navigate through the accident zone, warning that such actions posed serious risks.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also addressed the explosion in a statement, disclosing that emergency teams responded to the fire around 8:00 p.m.

The affected vehicle, a 30-tonne DAF gas truck with an unidentified registration number, was navigating the area when the explosion occurred.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation while urging residents and motorists to adhere to safety directives.