Panic gripped motorists near the Otedola Bridge on Wednesday as an 18-seater CNG-powered Toyota Hiace bus burst into flames while in motion, leaving 17 passengers rescued and one occupant with severe burns.
Promptly responding to the distress call, the Alausa Fire Station contained the inferno and transferred the injured victim to LASTMA officials for emergency medical care at the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre.
Highlighting the dangers of deferred maintenance after the vehicle was extensively damaged, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Chief Margaret Abimbola Adeseye issued a stern safety directive to commercial transport operators:
“Motorists must ensure that vehicle electrical systems, fuel connections, and other critical components are routinely inspected and maintained by qualified professionals”.
Adeseye further urged drivers to remain vigilant and immediately report electrical or mechanical faults to prevent avoidable fire disasters on Lagos roads.
