Another Tanker Explosion Shuts Down Otedola Bridge in Lagos
Olufemi Orunsola
Calamity struck the bustling city of Lagos late Tuesday night when another fuel-ladden tanker, exploded on the Otedola Bridge, sparking huge balls of fiery fire that engulfed the area, causing panic among residents and motorists.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that the fire, which erupted around 8:00 p.m., spread to nearby structures, including a church, a residential building, and an auto technician workshop.
OTN News reports that emergency responders have swung into action into the scene of the explosion and fire accident, making frantic efforts to contain the inferno.
In separate public announcements, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), have both confirmed the incident.
LASTMA, in a post on its official X handle stated, “A tanker has fallen and caught fire, affecting nearby structures, including a church, residential house, and mechanics’ parks at Otedola Under Bridge, adjacent to CMD Road. Fire rescue teams are currently at the scene, working to extinguish the fire and mitigate the situation.”
On its part, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said, “The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service is currently attending to a fire resulting from a tanker accident outward Otedola Bridge, Omole, Lagos, at about 20:00 hours.
The 30-tonne DAF Gas Truck with an unknown registration number was navigating the route when the incident occurred.”
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed that the agency’s Tiger Response Team was on the ground to contain the fire. “The road has been cordoned off, and we advise motorists to take alternative routes,” he said.
Meanwhile, LASTMA raised concerns over reckless motorists attempting to maneuver through the restricted area despite warnings.
“We have received reports that some motorists are recklessly attempting to navigate through the fire incident area, putting their lives at risk. This behavior is extremely hazardous and should be avoided,” the agency cautioned.
As of press time, emergency responders were still battling the inferno, of which no casualty figures had been declared by any of the concerned authorities.
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