LASTMA, FIRE SERVICE RESCUE 17 PASSENGERS FROM BURNING CNG BUS IN LAGOS

Read Time:1 Minute, 54 Second

By ‘Balogun Ibrahim

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has rescued 17 people after a Compressed Natural Gas-powered commercial bus caught fire following a reported gas explosion along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

One other passenger sustained severe burn injuries in the incident, which occurred at Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-bound section of the expressway.

LASTMA disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq.

READ MORE…

ADC CRISIS: COURT DECLARES BALA’S RESIGNATION LETTER INAUTHENTIC

According to the agency, the bus, with registration number EKY 798 YK, was carrying 18 occupants, including the driver, from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos when it reportedly burst into flames.

The statement said the incident triggered panic among passengers and other motorists using the busy expressway.

“In a swift and professionally coordinated emergency response, LASTMA personnel promptly mobilised to the scene, successfully evacuating and rescuing 17 occupants, including the driver, without any injuries.

“Regrettably, one male passenger, who was seated at the rear section of the vehicle, sustained severe burn injuries during the inferno,” the statement added.

The injured passenger was subsequently evacuated to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, Toll Gate, for urgent medical attention.

Meanwhile, personnel of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service arrived at the scene and successfully extinguished the fire, preventing it from spreading further.

Officers of the Ojodu Police Division also provided security and maintained order during the rescue and firefighting operations.

Commending the emergency response, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the agency’s personnel for their courage, professionalism and prompt intervention.

Bakare-Oki said the incident highlighted the importance of rapid emergency response, inter-agency cooperation and the deployment of adequately trained personnel in reducing the impact of road emergencies.

He urged commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to prioritise regular professional inspections, adhere to prescribed safety standards and ensure proper maintenance of their gas storage and delivery systems.

The LASTMA boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting lives, maintaining smooth traffic flow and strengthening collaboration with emergency response agencies across Lagos State.

He also commended the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their support during the operation.