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LAGOS, Nigeria (NAN) - A large explosion caused by a toppled fuel tanker has consumed the Otedola Under bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulting in significant destruction and paralyzing the area.
One person has been confirmed dead, while four others have suffered various degrees of burns. In addition to the fatalities, 14 vehicles, a multi-storey commercial building, and four shops were destroyed in the blast that occurred beneath the well-known bridge in the state.
This incident, which took place on Tuesday evening, has severely hindered traffic on the road, prompting many to seek alternate routes, while those without options were unable to pass through the disaster area.
NEMA Coordinator, Ibrahim Farinloye, verified the death toll, explaining that the gas tanker overturned while attempting to enter the busy road from Otedola estate road.
Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services Director, Margaret Adeseye, reported that the fire was initiated by a 30-ton DAF gas truck of unknown registration.
She noted that this caused an explosion and fireballs that rapidly spread to surrounding structures, including a Redeemed Church, a neighboring bungalow, and four vehicles of various makes.
She remarked, “The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service is currently addressing a fire stemming from a tanker accident near Otedola bridge, Omole, Lagos, at approximately 20:00 hours.
The 30-ton DAF Gas Truck with no identifiable registration was on its way navigating the Lagos-Ibadan expressway before an accident led to an explosion accompanied by fireballs near a Redeemed Church.
The resulting fire quickly extended to the church and adjacent bungalow, as well as four different brands of vehicles, as efforts are being made to prevent additional damage.”
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation through a statement on their social media platform.
They stated, “A tanker has overturned and caught fire, impacting nearby structures including a church, residential house, and mechanics’ parks at Otedola Under Bridge, adjacent to CMD Road. Fire Rescue teams are actively working at the site to extinguish the blaze and manage the situation. Recovery efforts are ongoing. As a result of this event, there is presently no movement in or out of Otedola Under Bridge, leading to a total blockage of the area.”
Witnesses recounted a horrifying scene as flames shot up into the sky, followed by thick clouds of black smoke engulfing the vicinity.
Adeseye mentioned that while firefighting efforts are underway, there have been no reports of additional casualties, and further updates will be provided.
