A devastating gas tanker explosion on Otedola Bridge in Lagos, Nigeria, late Tuesday night, has left a trail of destruction and loss of life. The massive fire, triggered by the overturned 30-tonne DAF gas truck, claimed the lives of two people, injured four others, and ravaged several buildings, vehicles, and shops.
According to the Lagos State Police Command, the incident occurred when the gas tanker lost control while attempting to climb the link road to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The resulting explosion and fire engulfed four buildings, 15 vehicles, and several shops, causing widespread panic among motorists.
The Lagos State Police Command's spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident, stating that the number of casualties is still being assessed. However, preliminary reports indicate that two bodies have been recovered, and four people are receiving medical attention.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported a slightly different casualty figure, with one person confirmed dead and four injured. The South West Coordinator of NEMA, Ibrahim Farinloye, also confirmed that 14 vehicles, four shops, and a commercial storey building were damaged in the inferno.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service added that the fire spread to a church, an adjoining bungalow, and four more vehicles. Emergency responders are still working at the scene, and more updates are expected.
The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the need for stricter regulations on the transportation of hazardous materials. As the investigation into the incident continues, the people of Lagos mourn the loss of life and property, and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.