A diesel tanker overturned on Monday at Liverpool Bridge, inward Mile 2, Apapa, Lagos, causing traffic disruption and sparking safety concerns as residents were seen scooping fuel from the scene.
In a statement on its official X (formerly Twitter) page, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority confirmed that the tanker was fully loaded with diesel and that the spill was spreading across the bridge due to damage to the tank.
“There’s a fallen tanker loaded with diesel on top Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2. The diesel is spreading on the bridge as a result of the damaged tank,” LASTMA said.
The authority added that police and other safety agencies had been notified, and traffic had been diverted to ensure the safety of commuters.
“Traffic has been diverted to that other side of the bridge for safety measures. Please adhere strictly to all instructions from the traffic managers,” the statement read.
Videos circulating on social media showed residents collecting diesel despite the obvious risks. Authorities warned that scooping fuel from accident scenes could lead to fire outbreaks or other dangerous incidents.
Motorists were advised to take alternative routes and to comply with the instructions of traffic officials at the scene.
