A potential late-night disaster was averted along the Secretariat inward Otedola Bridge axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway following the intervention of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday night, involved a Mack truck conveying an empty 20-foot container that suddenly caught fire while in motion, posing a threat to motorists and infrastructure in the busy Lagos – Ibadan Expressway
According to Taofiq Adebayo, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, LASTMA, the agency’s personnel responded promptly to the emergency, prioritising the safety of lives.
He said, “Upon receiving distress alerts, our officers immediately mobilised to the scene with the primary objective of preserving human life and preventing escalation.”
Adebayo confirmed that the truck driver was rescued unhurt from the inferno. “We successfully evacuated the driver from the burning vehicle without any injury, which remains our foremost concern in such high-risk situations,” he said.
He added that the volatile nature of the incident, particularly at the Otedola Bridge axis, necessitated a coordinated emergency response.
“Recognising the strategic sensitivity of the location and the inherent dangers posed by such incidents, LASTMA operatives swiftly activated emergency protocols and collaborated seamlessly with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service,” Adebayo stated.
He noted that the combined efforts of both agencies led to the rapid containment of the fire, preventing what could have escalated into a major catastrophe.
“The timely intervention ensured that the inferno was subdued before it could spread, thereby averting a large-scale disaster and safeguarding both lives and critical infrastructure,” he said.
Adebayo further disclosed that normal traffic flow was restored shortly after the incident. “Our operatives also worked assiduously to manage traffic and ensure the prompt restoration of vehicular movement, minimising disruption for road users,” he added.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the operatives for their professionalism and bravery.
Adebayo quoted him as saying, “The gallantry, composure and operational efficiency displayed by our personnel in the face of this potentially catastrophic incident are highly commendable.”
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to road safety across the state. “LASTMA remains unwavering in its mandate to protect lives and property while ensuring a safe and efficient traffic environment throughout Lagos State,” he said.
The agency also advised motorists to prioritise vehicle maintenance to prevent similar incidents.
“Motorists are strongly urged to conduct regular mechanical and electrical checks on their vehicles and exercise utmost caution while on the road, as proactive maintenance remains critical in preventing emergencies,” Adebayo said.
He reaffirmed that LASTMA would continue to work with relevant stakeholders to enhance emergency response and traffic management across the state.
