Lagos residents were seen scooping diesel from a fallen tanker on the Tincan–Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, despite warnings from authorities about the risk of a fire outbreak.
The tanker, which was loaded with diesel, overturned on the bridge inward Mile 2, spilling its contents onto the road and causing disruption along the busy corridor.
Residents Ignoring Warnings to Scoop Diesel
Videos circulating online showed several residents gathering around the fallen tanker with jerrycans, buckets, and other containers, collecting the spilled diesel from the scene. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the tanker was loaded with diesel and that the product spread across the bridge after the tank was damaged.
The agency said traffic was diverted as emergency teams moved in to manage the situation. Residents were seen scooping diesel despite the risk of a possible fire outbreak, which authorities had warned about.
Emergency Responders Intervene
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed that emergency responders were activated following the incident and warned members of the public against scooping the spilled product or engaging in any activity that could trigger a secondary disaster. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service later moved to secure the scene and prevent further danger, while security agencies worked to control the crowd gathering around the tanker.
No fire outbreak was reported in the Apapa incident, and emergency responders were able to contain the situation. Fuel scooping after tanker accidents has repeatedly resulted in deadly incidents across Nigeria.
A Repeated Pattern of Danger
Fuel scooping after tanker accidents has repeatedly resulted in deadly incidents across Nigeria. Authorities have consistently warned that leaked petroleum products can ignite from sources such as flames, sparks, or other ignition points, turning rescue scenes into disaster zones.
In October 2024, more than 100 people were killed in Jigawa State after a petrol tanker explosion involving residents who had gathered to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker.
Source: Pulse.ng
