By Olamilekan Abayomi
A diesel tanker overturned on the Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, causing a huge commotion as people rushed to scoop fuel from the damaged vehicle. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has warned residents against scooping spilled petroleum products or igniting any flame near the area, citing the risk of explosion or fire outbreak.
Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, are on the scene, working to contain the situation. The tanker, carrying 45,000 litres of diesel, was secured without escalation, but security personnel are keeping the crowd at bay to prevent further danger.
The incident has caused severe traffic disruption along the busy corridor, with motorists advised to take alternative routes. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has diverted traffic to reduce risks to commuters.
Despite warnings, videos circulating on social media show residents and passersby scooping diesel from the fallen tanker using jerrycans and other containers. Authorities have repeatedly warned against this practice, citing the risk of explosions, fires, and loss of life .
This incident highlights the recurring danger of residents scooping fuel from fallen tankers in Nigeria. In October 2024, over 100 people were killed after a petrol tanker exploded along the Kano-Hadejia expressway in Jigawa State, while a similar incident in October 2025 claimed several lives in Niger State.
The Lagos State Government has activated its disaster management plan, with water tankers stationed at strategic points around the scene to prevent any secondary incident. Authorities are urging residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid the area.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, has assured the public that safety has been restored, but residents are still advised to avoid the area. The Controller-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, has confirmed that the situation is under control .
The incident has again raised concerns about the safety of residents and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. The Lagos State Government is working to prevent such incidents in the future.
The road on Liverpool Bridge inward Apapa, initially cordoned off, has been reopened after the contents were neutralised by the Lagos State Fire Service. Traffic officials are on the ground, and movement is expected to improve .
The incident is a stark reminder of the risks associated with fuel scooping and the importance of prioritizing safety. Authorities are urging residents to cooperate with emergency responders and avoid dangerous activities around accident scenes .
