A massive explosion rocked Lagos on Tuesday night as a gas-laden tanker burst into flames on the notorious Otedola Bridge, leaving two people dead and three others injured.
The fiery inferno sent shockwaves through the area, forcing residents and motorists to flee in terror as thick black smoke billowed into the sky.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the fire engulfed vehicles, trapping some in the blaze. “It was like a war zone. People were running, screaming, trying to escape the fire,” a witness recounted.
Explosion destroyed 12 vehicles
According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the explosion destroyed 12 vehicles, eight tricycles, and a building, while three critically injured victims were rushed to the hospital. The agency confirmed that the LASEMA Tiger Response Team was deployed immediately to control the fire and prevent further disaster.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) reported that the fire spread to a church, a residential house, and mechanic workshops, further escalating the damage. “The entire Otedola Under Bridge has been completely blocked, with no movement in or out,” LASTMA warned in a statement on X.
Motorists Ignore Safety Warnings
Despite emergency responders’ swift action, authorities expressed frustration over reckless motorists attempting to drive through the fire. “Some drivers are dangerously trying to maneuver through the accident zone, ignoring the clear danger,” LASEMA lamented, calling the behavior “extremely hazardous.”
Extremely hazardous
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed its team was actively fighting the fire, which broke out around 8:00 p.m. The agency revealed that the 30-tonne DAF Gas Truck, with an unknown registration number, was navigating the bridge when the explosion occurred.
As recovery operations continue, authorities have urged commuters to avoid the area and follow official traffic updates to ease congestion.
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