In a swift, well-coordinated, and highly professional emergency response that forestalled what could have degenerated into a monumental catastrophe, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with officials of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency agencies, successfully averted a major disaster following a collision between a Lexus Jeep and a fully-loaded Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker around Berger Suya, inward Mile 2, Lagos.
According to preliminary security reports, the Lexus Jeep, with registration number LSR 606 XH, was reportedly at excessive speed when it collided with the PMS-laden tanker. The impact caused the tanker driver to lose control, subsequently ramming into several unregistered vehicles displayed along the highway setback, resulting in extensive damage to the affected vehicles.
LASTMA personnel attached to the area arrived at the scene with commendable promptness, immediately cordoning off and restricting vehicular movement across the entire corridor to ensure public safety and to facilitate the safe transloading of the highly flammable PMS into another tanker.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, which promptly deployed its officers to the scene, flushed and neutralized the fuel spillage, thereby averting an imminent explosion and ensuring the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and nearby residents.
Meanwhile, officers from the Trinity Police Division provided security reinforcement throughout the sensitive operation, maintaining order and safeguarding the accident scene during the transloading and evacuation processes.
Further investigation revealed that the driver of the Lexus Jeep sustained injuries and was subsequently handed over to the Police by LASTMA officials for further inquiry, while the tanker driver absconded immediately after the incident.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, lauded the swift synergy and professionalism demonstrated by all responding agencies, describing the intervention as “a remarkable testament to the efficiency, coordination, and readiness of Lagos State’s emergency response architecture.”
He noted that the timely containment of the situation prevented what could have been a devastating explosion, given the volatility of petroleum products.
Mr. Bakare-Oki further admonished motorists to desist from reckless driving, adhere strictly to speed limits, and exercise maximum caution while on the road, emphasizing that LASTMA remains steadfastly committed to the protection of lives and property through proactive traffic management, continuous public sensitization, and rapid emergency interventions.
He reiterated that under the ongoing 24-hour operational regime, LASTMA will continue to strengthen collaboration with emergency and security agencies to ensure that traffic-related incidents across Lagos are swiftly and safely managed, thereby minimizing casualties and preventing secondary disasters.
Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA
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