Two people have been confirmed dead following a diesel tanker explosion early Thursday along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has said.
The incident occurred at the Oto-Ijanikin axis, near the Lagos State University of Education, after a tanker conveying diesel reportedly lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle, crashed, and burst into flames.
The Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Mr Adebayo Taofiq, confirmed the incident in a statement posted on the agency’s X handle on Thursday.
According to the statement, “Preliminary findings from security investigations indicate that the unfortunate incident was precipitated by excessive speed, as the tanker driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle while attempting to overtake another road user.
“The vehicle subsequently crashed and erupted into a raging inferno, tragically trapping and claiming the lives of the driver and an adult female occupant.
“LASTMA personnel who were actively monitoring and managing vehicular movement within the corridor responded with remarkable alacrity and professionalism.”
The agency said its officials swiftly secured and cordoned off the affected section of the road to prevent secondary accidents.
It added that the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (Ojo Unit), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Ijanikin Police Division were immediately alerted to provide emergency response and security reinforcement.
LASTMA further disclosed that its officers prevented members of the public from attempting to scoop the spilled diesel at the scene, describing the act as extremely dangerous and capable of triggering further explosions and loss of lives.
Following the containment of the inferno, the severely burnt tanker was evacuated to eliminate additional traffic hazards, while the remains of the deceased were removed by FRSC officials.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “deeply painful and entirely avoidable,” and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
He stressed the need for strict adherence to road safety regulations, urging tanker and articulated vehicle drivers to observe speed limits and drive with caution.
Bakare-Oki also warned members of the public against the hazardous practice of collecting spilled petroleum products from accident scenes.
“The Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety and the sanctity of human life,” he said.