The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has prevented a potential fire disaster following the overturning of a fully laden Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker at Awoyaya, along the inward carriageway of the Lekki–Epe Expressway.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Sunday when the tanker reportedly lost control and overturned while navigating the busy expressway, posing a grave risk to motorists, residents and nearby properties..
LASTMA operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene, where they cordoned off the affected area, controlled traffic and initiated recovery procedures to prevent secondary accidents and fuel scooping.
Confirming the incident, Taofiq Adebayo, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment LASTMA, said the agency’s rapid response was crucial in averting a catastrophe.
“Our Rescue and Recovery Unit was immediately dispatched to the scene to secure the area, enforce traffic control and prevent fuel scooping, which could have triggered a devastating fire incident,” Taofiq said.
He added that the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service was mobilised to the scene to enforce fire prevention protocols and ensure there was no ignition risk.
“The Fire Service activated containment and surveillance measures, while transloading of the fuel into another 33,000-litre tanker was carried out under strict supervision to eliminate any danger,” he stated.
Adebayo noted that no casualties were recorded and traffic was temporarily halted before being cautiously restored to ensure public safety.
The agency also advised tanker and articulated vehicle operators to adhere strictly to safety regulations and ensure proper vehicle maintenance, especially during night operations.
“We urge operators to exercise utmost caution, conduct routine vehicle checks and comply with safety standards to protect lives and critical infrastructure,” he said.
Commending the inter-agency collaboration, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, praised the professionalism of LASTMA and the Fire and Rescue Service for their prompt intervention.
