VIDEO: Fire Averted as Fuel Tanker Explodes in Lagos

Punchngs July 29, 2025

VIDEO: Fire Averted as Fuel Tanker Explodes in Lagos

Nigeria News
31.08.2025
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A major fire disaster was narrowly averted in Lagos on Sunday, August 31, 2025, after a petroleum tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) overturned and went up in flames at Iyana-Isolo, inward Oshodi.The frightening incident, which could have escalated into a full-blown catastrophe, was quickly contained by the swift intervention of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and other emergency responders. While the fire spread to at least four parked trucks nearby, it was prevented from causing further destruction or claiming lives.

According to eyewitnesses and video clips circulating online, thick smoke and flames engulfed the area, sparking panic among residents, motorists, and commuters. Fortunately, authorities responded promptly, bringing the situation under control within a short period.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the tanker driver lost control due to overspeeding, which caused the vehicle to overturn and spill its highly flammable content. In seconds, fire erupted, spreading to nearby vehicles and threatening to consume surrounding structures.Panic ensued as motorists scrambled for safety. However, the coordinated response of LASTMA operatives ensured that traffic was diverted from Ilasa inward Oshodi, while the accident scene was immediately cordoned off to prevent secondary accidents and stampedes.

An eyewitness, who spoke anonymously, noted that the quick arrival of fire service officials prevented the flames from extending to nearby residential areas, which could have resulted in an unimaginable tragedy.

Confirming the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended his operatives for their timely intervention and praised the joint efforts of other responding agencies.

“No human casualties were recorded, thanks to the swift intervention of LASTMA operatives and other agencies. The preservation of life and property is at the core of our operations,”
Bakare-Oki stated.

He further explained that operatives from adjoining zones were immediately mobilised to assist in traffic management, evacuation, and coordination. The collaborative response involved the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Nigeria Police Force (Aswani, Ilasa, and Mushin Divisions), and the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps.

Apart from LASTMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service played a critical role in extinguishing the flames. Fire trucks were deployed to the scene, and firefighters battled the inferno until it was completely contained.

The Nigeria Police Force from nearby divisions also joined in, ensuring security and dispersing crowds to allow emergency workers unhindered access. Meanwhile, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps assisted in controlling movement around the area, ensuring that residents were safe and orderly.

The synergy between these agencies highlighted Lagos State’s growing capacity for emergency response and disaster prevention. Their coordinated efforts helped avert what could have become one of the city’s worst fire disasters in recent years.

As expected, the explosion caused significant traffic disruption across major routes in Oshodi and Isolo. LASTMA officials diverted traffic flow from Ilasa inward Oshodi, creating alternative routes for motorists. Although the diversion caused temporary gridlock in adjoining areas, it was a necessary step to safeguard lives and ensure rescue operations continued unhindered.Several commuters who were caught in the chaos narrated their experiences, with many thanking the swift intervention of emergency agencies for preventing loss of life. Some noted that the incident serves as a strong reminder of the importance of strict road safety measures for tanker drivers.

The preliminary report linking the incident to overspeeding has reignited discussions about road safety and regulatory compliance in Lagos State. In recent years, tanker accidents have been frequent, often caused by reckless driving, poor vehicle maintenance, and disregard for traffic laws.Related News:

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Experts believe that stricter enforcement of speed limits for heavy-duty vehicles, routine mechanical checks, and driver reorientation programs are necessary to reduce such accidents.

Citizens have also called for the establishment of dedicated parking and loading bays for tankers in order to prevent such disasters from occurring on busy urban roads.

Sadly, Lagos has witnessed multiple tanker-related tragedies in the past. Some notable incidents include:

2018 Otedola Bridge tanker explosion that killed dozens of people and destroyed over 50 vehicles.
2022 Apapa fire outbreak linked to a tanker spill that caused traffic paralysis for hours.
Several smaller but frequent tanker fires across Ikorodu, Mushin, and Mile 2 areas in recent years.

These recurring incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive policies on tanker operations and road safety in Lagos.

Following the incident, videos and photos of the tanker explosion trended widely on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and WhatsApp. Nigerians expressed relief that no lives were lost, while others criticized tanker drivers for reckless driving.Many also praised the quick intervention of LASTMA and the Fire Service, noting that without their response, the tragedy could have been worse. Some citizens called for urgent government action to prevent a repeat of such life-threatening accidents.

The Iyana-Isolo tanker explosion on Sunday, August 31, 2025, is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by poorly regulated tanker operations in Lagos. Thanks to the combined efforts of LASTMA, Fire Service, Police, and other agencies, a major tragedy was averted, and no lives were lost.However, the incident should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to enforce stricter safety regulations on tanker movement, while also educating drivers on the consequences of overspeeding.

With continued vigilance, strong enforcement, and public awareness, Lagos can reduce the risks of such disasters and ensure the safety of lives and property.