One person has been confirmed dead and three others injured in a tanker explosion on the Otedola Bridge in Lagos.
The tanker, which was loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), erupted in flames on Tuesday, causing panic among residents and motorists who rushed to safety.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed the casualties in a statement, revealing that three adult male victims with severe burns were rescued and taken to the Gbagada General Hospital burns unit. In contrast, the body of an adult male was recovered.
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that efforts are ongoing to extinguish the flames, and motorists have been advised to seek alternative routes.
Earlier, Oke-Osanyintolu mentioned that the agency’s Tiger Response Team was on-site working to bring the situation under control. The road was cordoned off, and drivers were urged to avoid the area.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) also confirmed the explosion in a statement, noting that the fire affected nearby structures, including a church, a residential house, and mechanic parks under the Otedola Bridge, adjacent to CMD Road. Emergency responders are at the scene working to manage the situation.
According to LASTMA, the explosion has caused a complete blockade of the Otedola Under Bridge area, with no movement in or out. The agency warned motorists against recklessly attempting to drive through the fire-affected area, labeling such behavior as hazardous.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also issued an update, confirming that they are addressing the fire caused by the explosion of a 30-tonne DAF Gas Truck at about 8:00 PM.
