TWO KILLED AS TANKER EXPLODES ON LAGOS-BADAGRY EXPRESSWAY

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By: Sefiu Ajape

Two persons have been confirmed dead following a diesel tanker explosion in the early hours of Thursday along the Badagry Expressway, Lagos, according to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

The incident occurred at the Oto-Ijanikin axis, near the Lagos State University of Education, after a diesel-laden truck reportedly lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle, crashed, and went up in flames.

Confirming the development in a statement posted on the agency’s X page on Thursday, LASTMA Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Mr Adebayo Taofiq, attributed the explosion to reckless driving.

The statement read, “Preliminary findings from security investigations indicate that the unfortunate incident was precipitated by excessive speed, as the tanker driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle while attempting to overtake another road user.

“The vehicle subsequently crashed and erupted into a raging inferno, tragically trapping and claiming the lives of the driver and an adult female occupant.

“LASTMA personnel who were actively monitoring and managing vehicular movement within the corridor responded with remarkable alacrity and professionalism.”

According to the statement, LASTMA officials immediately secured and cordoned off the affected section of the road to prevent secondary crashes and alerted relevant emergency agencies, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (Ojo Unit), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Ijanikin Police Division.

The agency also disclosed that its officers intervened to stop members of the public from attempting to scoop spilt diesel from the scene, noting that such actions could have led to further explosions and loss of lives.

After the fire was brought under control, the burnt tanker was evacuated to eliminate traffic risks, while the remains of the victims were recovered by FRSC officials.

Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the tragedy as “deeply painful and entirely avoidable,” as he commiserated with the families of the deceased.

He urged drivers of tankers and other articulated vehicles to adhere strictly to speed limits and traffic regulations, while also cautioning the public against the dangerous practice of collecting petroleum products from accident scenes.

“The Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety and the sanctity of human life,” Bakare-Oki said.