The Lagos State Government has issued a public warning following reports of residents scooping fuel from a fallen tanker at the Tincan–Liverpool Bridge area of Apapa.
The warning followed the overturning of a diesel tanker on the bridge, inward Mile 2, which led to fuel spillage and severe traffic disruption along the busy corridor.
In an urgent situation report issued on Monday, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed that the tanker was leaking diesel and that emergency responders had been deployed to the scene. The statement was signed by LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu.
“Our attention has been drawn to a fallen tanker at the above location, which is leaking fuel. All emergency responders have been activated and are en route to the location,” the statement read.
LASEMA cautioned members of the public against engaging in dangerous activities around the accident scene, warning of possible secondary incidents.
“Members of the public are urged to exercise EXTREME CAUTION to avoid any secondary incident from scooping product or lighting any flame near the area,” the agency warned.
Motorists were also advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes. “The disaster management plan has been activated. Updates to follow,” the statement added.
Despite the warning, videos circulating on social media showed residents scooping diesel from the fallen tanker, exposing themselves to serious risks.
Reacting to the incident, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the tanker was loaded with diesel and that the spillage was spreading on the bridge due to damage to the tank.
“There is a fallen tanker loaded with diesel on top of Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2. The diesel is spreading on the bridge as a result of the damaged tank,” LASTMA said in a statement on its official X handle.
The authority said security agencies had been alerted and traffic diverted to reduce risks to commuters.
“Men of the Nigerian Police Force from Area B and other safety agencies have been swiftly notified. Traffic has been diverted to the other side of the bridge for safety measures,” it stated.
LASTMA urged motorists to comply with traffic officials on ground as emergency agencies continued efforts to contain the situation.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that scooping fuel from accident scenes poses serious dangers, including fire outbreaks and loss of lives.