A fuel tanker carrying petroleum motor spirit (PMS) overturned on the Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, early Monday morning.
The incident caused panic as residents were seen scooping fuel from underneath the bridge despite repeated warnings about the dangers of such actions.
A reporter at the scene, shared a video: “Happening now at Tincan Liverpool Bridge, Apapa: A tanker overturned, with people scooping its contents from underneath the bridge.”
The Lagos State Government quickly issued a warning to residents after reports confirmed that the tanker was leaking fuel. The accident blocked traffic along the busy corridor inward Mile 2.
In a situation report signed by Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), authorities confirmed that emergency responders had been deployed.
“Our attention has been brought to a fallen tanker at the above location, which is leaking fuel. All emergency responders have been activated and are en route to the location,” the statement read.
LASEMA cautioned residents against unsafe behavior at the scene. “Members of the public are urged to exercise EXTREME CAUTION to avoid any secondary incident from scooping product or lighting any flame near the area,” the agency warned.
Motorists were also advised to avoid the axis. “Motorists are advised to take alternative routes. Disaster management plan has been activated. Updates to follow,” LASEMA added.
Traffic Diversion and Safety Measures
Videos circulating online showed residents scooping diesel from the fallen tanker despite the obvious risk of fire and explosions.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the tanker was loaded with diesel and that the spill was spreading across the bridge due to damage to the tank.
“There’s a fallen tanker loaded with diesel on top Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2. The diesel is spreading on the bridge as a result of the damaged tank,” LASTMA said in a statement on its official X handle.
The authority added that security agencies had been alerted and traffic diverted to reduce risks to commuters. “Men of Nigerian Police Force from Area B and other safety agencies have been swiftly notified. Traffic has been diverted to that other side of the bridge for safety measures,” the statement noted.
LASTMA urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officials. “Please adhere strictly to all instructions from the traffic managers,” it added.
Fuel tanker accidents remain a recurring tragedy in Nigeria. Despite repeated warnings, residents often rush to scoop spilled fuel, leading to deadly explosions and loss of lives.
Authorities continue to stress that such actions pose grave risks, while emergency agencies work to contain the situation at the Tincan Liverpool Bridge.
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