Nigeria: Tanker explosion paralyzes traffic on Lagos-Ibadan expressway
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
A devastating tanker explosion occurred on Wednesday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, opposite the NASFAT junction, leaving two people severely injured and six vehicles burnt. According to eyewitnesses, the tanker was attempting a U-turn when it overturned, spilling its contents before catching fire.
The incident caused widespread disruption to traffic on both sides of the expressway, with vehicles stranded for hours. The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency confirmed the incident, stating that two male casualties were taken to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.
In a subsequent update, the agency reported that the casualties were instead taken to FAMOBIS Hospital at Lotto due to heavy traffic. The spokesperson for the agency, Babatunde Akinbiyi, disclosed that six vehicles, including four trucks, one bus, and a Toyota Camry, were involved in the crash.
In a separate incident, another tanker fell along the same expressway, causing a gridlock near the Ogere bridge. Law enforcement agents, including firefighters, were deployed to the scene to evacuate the fuel and lift the vehicle. Motorists spent over an hour stuck in traffic, with some attempting alternative routes.
The incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and safety measures on Nigerian roads. Authorities are working to clear the scene and restore normalcy to traffic flow. Further investigations are awaited to determine the causes of the incidents.
