Residents flee as gas tanker overturns in Lagos

Residents flee as gas tanker overturns in Lagos

A major disaster was narrowly averted on Monday after a gas tanker transporting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinders overturned along the main carriageway at Chisco, near Victoria Island, Lagos.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang followed by a hissing sound as gas began leaking from the tanker, prompting widespread panic. Residents and passersby fled the area, fearing a possible explosion.

“I was on my way to work when the truck crashed,” said one eyewitness. “I immediately ran away from the scene. It was chaotic.”

Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos Fire and Rescue Service, and the Police, swiftly arrived to contain the situation. The area was cordoned off, traffic diverted, and ignition sources eliminated to prevent a fire outbreak.

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No casualties were reported at the time of filing this report, but the incident has reignited concerns over public safety and the transportation of hazardous materials through densely populated areas.

Confirming the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described it as a “near fire disaster” and credited the swift intervention of emergency teams for averting tragedy.

He explained that the crash involved a Howo tanker truck laden with gas cylinders, which overturned after the driver reportedly lost control on the busy expressway.

“Given the highly volatile nature of the product, the situation posed an immediate and severe threat to human life and property, necessitating urgent technical intervention,” Bakare-Oki said.

He commended the professionalism and courage of emergency personnel, noting that their rapid response and adherence to safety protocols ensured the safe recovery of the vehicle and containment of the leak.

“Their immediate action in securing the environment prevented what could have been an unspeakable tragedy,” he added.

Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution and called for stricter regulations on the movement of hazardous materials within urban areas.

 

Residents flee as gas tanker overturns in Lagos