Disaster averted as fire guts gas-laden tanker, Lagos supermarket

A major disaster was averted in Lagos on Thursday as emergency responders contained two separate fire incidents, one involving a gas-laden tanker and another at a supermarket, with no lives lost.

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Initial findings indicate that the vehicle was travelling at speed when it struck a road bump. The impact caused the driver to lose control, which led to a tyre burst and an immediate fire outbreak.

The tanker fire occurred at Ola Farm Bus Stop in Ikotun. According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), preliminary findings suggest the driver lost control after hitting a road bump at high speed, causing a tyre burst and subsequent fire. LASEMA officials, alongside the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, worked to extinguish the blaze and secure the area, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures and road users. Traffic and crowd control were managed by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Federal Road Safety Corps, and the Nigeria Police.

LASEMA Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu urged motorists to adhere to speed limits, especially near speed bumps and in residential areas, emphasizing that such caution saves lives and property. He also reminded the public to report emergencies via the state's toll-free lines.

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We are grateful to report that there was no loss of life, and no casualties were recorded. The situation has been brought under control, and the fire fully extinguished.

In a separate incident, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed and extinguished a fire in the electronics section of the Justrite Superstore in Egbeda. The fire, located at No. 116, Akowonjo Road, near Jimoh Bus Stop, was also brought under control without any casualties.

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We use this opportunity to remind all motorists of the importance of adhering to speed limits, particularly around designated bumps and in residential corridors. Such caution saves lives and protects property.