The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into a diesel-laden tanker crash and subsequent inferno beneath the Otedola Bridge along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:10 PM on Monday, when a tanker carrying diesel plunged into the underpass on the outward section of the expressway, triggering a massive fire. Preliminary findings submitted by the FRSC Lagos Sector Command cited excessive speed as the cause of the crash.
Two adult male occupants sustained injuries and were rushed to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre for medical treatment. No fatalities were recorded in the initial report.
Emergency responders, including the FRSC rescue team, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Nigeria Police Force, arrived at the scene within ten minutes of receiving the alert to contain the blaze and manage the resulting traffic gridlock.
Reacting swiftly to the disaster, the Corps Marshal condemned the actions of the driver, warning that reckless driving by operators of heavy-duty vehicles poses an unacceptable threat to public safety, national infrastructure, and human life.
“The transportation of petroleum products demands exceptional discipline, professional competence, and strict adherence to safety standards,” Mohammed said, adding that “no journey is worth the price of human life.”
The FRSC boss further cautioned fleet operators against prioritizing commercial profits over safety through unrealistic delivery schedules and poor vehicle maintenance. He also warned members of the public to steer clear of the crash site, strongly advising against approaching burning tankers to scoop spilled fuel or film videos.
The Corps reiterated its commitment to intensifying operational enforcement and holding negligent drivers and fleet owners legally accountable.
