A devastating explosion rocked the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Wednesday after a petrol-laden tanker overturned and ignited into flames near the NASFAT U-turn axis, causing widespread panic and traffic paralysis.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun State Sector Command, confirmed the incident to Newsmen.
According to Florence Okpe, the command’s Education Officer, emergency response teams from both the FRSC and the state fire service were swiftly deployed to the scene. However, she noted that casualty details were still unconfirmed as of press time.
Eyewitnesses reported that the explosion engulfed several nearby vehicles, with plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the sky—visible from several kilometers away. Motorists and commuters were forced to abandon their vehicles and flee the scene, fearing secondary explosions.
The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) also verified the incident, describing it as “severe.” TRACE spokesperson Babatunde Akinbiyi said the explosion occurred on the outbound Lagos lane, significantly disrupting traffic flow.
In a statement, he advised motorists to avoid the area and follow diversion routes through Christ Embassy Camp as rescue efforts continued.
“TRACE, FRSC, and police operatives are fully on ground, managing the situation,” Akinbiyi said.
Unlike routine minor spills or collisions often reported on this busy corridor, this incident underscores the persistent danger posed by fuel tankers on Nigeria’s highways.
In contrast to some media outlets that offer sparse details, this report highlights the severity of the explosion, the swift response by emergency teams, and the need for improved safety regulations for the transport of hazardous materials.
Motorists are urged to exercise patience and seek alternative routes as clearing efforts continue.
