Outrage as Residents Scoop Groundnut Oil From Lagos Tanker Crash Scene

Residents have come under criticism after they were seen scooping spilled groundnut oil from the scene of a tanker accident around Ojota Bridge in Lagos, prompting a warning from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) over the potential health risks of consuming or selling the recovered product.

The tanker, reportedly carrying 33,000 litres of groundnut oil, overturned on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near Abiola Garden, Ojota, on the inward lane towards the Old Toll Gate.

A video circulating on social media showed some residents gathering around the accident scene to collect the spilled oil, using containers to scoop it from the road. Police officers and LASTMA personnel were also seen at the location.

LASTMA warned members of the public against consuming or selling groundnut oil recovered from the accident scene, stressing that the spilled product could have been contaminated by dirt, debris, water or other substances on the road. Although the oil was intended for human consumption, its exposure to the accident environment raises concerns about its safety. Residents were therefore advised not to collect, purchase or consume the recovered product.

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The agency’s rescue and recovery team reportedly arrived at the scene with high-capacity tow vehicles to assist in removing the overturned tanker and managing the resulting traffic disruption. Traffic officials worked with other emergency responders, including the police and relevant road safety agencies, to secure the area and facilitate recovery operations.

The crash caused disruption around Ojota Bridge and adjoining sections of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as emergency personnel worked to clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow. Motorists were advised to exercise caution and follow the instructions of traffic officers in the area.

No casualties were reported in the incident. Preliminary accounts suggested that brake failure might have caused the tanker to overturn, although the suspected cause had not been confirmed by a final investigation.

The incident has renewed concerns about tanker safety, emergency response and the risks people take when collecting products spilled during road accidents. Beyond the immediate danger of approaching an overturned tanker, recovered food products may be unsafe for consumption if their quality and cleanliness cannot be established.

Authorities continue to urge residents to keep away from accident scenes, allow emergency teams to work and avoid collecting spilled goods that may pose risks to public health.