LASTMA Prevents Major Fire Disaster As Gas Tanker Overturns At Chisco

A potential tragedy was averted in Lagos on Monday morning when operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) swiftly contained a major accident involving a gas-laden tanker that overturned on the main carriageway at Chisco, inward Victoria Island.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, involved a Howo white tanker truck fully loaded with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) cylinders. According to preliminary investigations, the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn on the busy expressway, a development that posed an immediate threat of explosion and widespread fire.

On arrival, LASTMA officials quickly cordoned off the area, securing the overturned vehicle and its cargo to prevent leakage or ignition, their prompt response helped avert what could have been a catastrophic fire outbreak in the high-traffic corridor.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, LASTMA’s Rescue and Emergency Unit activated a multi-agency emergency response like The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lekki Concession Company (LCC), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) were all mobilising them to the scene through a well coordinated efforts, the situation was safely managed, and normalcy restored within hours.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who was physically present at the scene, commended his officers for their professionalism and bravery, confirming that the overturned tanker was successfully recovered using heavy-duty cranes and other advanced equipment.

“Our officers displayed remarkable precision and courage in managing the situation. Their immediate intervention prevented what could have been an unspeakable tragedy. The recovery process was handled with strict adherence to safety protocols,” Bakare-Oki said.

To ease traffic congestion caused by the incident, additional LASTMA personnel were deployed to manage diversions.

The main carriageway from Chisco inward Victoria Island was temporarily closed, while motorists were redirected through the new coastal road and reconnected via Bar Beach until the recovery operation was completed.

The LASTMA boss used the opportunity to warn truck drivers and operators of articulated vehicles carrying hazardous materials to adhere strictly to traffic and safety regulations, emphasising the need for regular vehicle maintenance, compliance with speed limits, and extra caution during wet weather conditions.

He also noted that products such as Gas, Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Diesel, and Kerosene must be transported with extreme care to avoid preventable disasters.

Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safety, Bakare-Oki assured that LASTMA will continue to collaborate with other emergency and enforcement agencies to ensure traffic discipline, environmental safety, and effective emergency response across the state.