Lagos Govt Blames Tanker Driver For Gas Explosion
The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, has revealed that the driver of the gas tanker that exploded at Otedola Bridge violated traffic regulations by ignoring a clearly marked ‘No Truck Allowed’ sign.
Osiyemi made this known on Thursday during an assessment visit to the explosion site, which was engulfed in flames on Tuesday night after the tanker lost control.
The commissioner stressed that the tragic incident could have been avoided if the driver had adhered to the road sign prohibiting heavy-duty vehicles from using that corridor.
“There was a clear sign that said ‘No Trucks Allowed,’ yet the tanker driver disregarded it, putting lives and property at risk,” Osiyemi stated.
The commissioner further disclosed that the Lagos State Government would deploy additional technical safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
He noted that the site inspection allowed officials to assess not only the transport infrastructure but also structural damage to the bridge and surrounding facilities.
Osiyemi reiterated the government’s commitment to enforcing stricter traffic regulations, urging truck drivers to prioritize safety and adhere to road rules to protect lives and property.
“This incident reinforces the urgent need for stricter safety protocols for heavy-duty vehicles. The Ministry of Transportation is also intensifying enforcement on the movement of hazardous materials, strengthening regulatory compliance, and implementing enhanced safety measures to prevent future occurrences,” he said.
“We are here to look at the totality of what happened. A comprehensive assessment of the bridge and surrounding structures.”
THE WHISTLER reports that at least two people were confirmed dead following the devastating gas explosion.
The explosion, which occurred around 8:00 p.m., resulted in massive property destruction, leaving four buildings and 15 vehicles, including tricycles, completely burnt.
According to a police report seen by THE WHISTLER, the fire started when an articulated gas tanker lost control while trying to ascend the link road to the expressway.
The vehicle overturned, spilling its gas content onto the road, which ignited instantly and caused an inferno that rapidly spread to nearby structures and vehicles.
Lagos Govt Blames Tanker Driver For Gas Explosion is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
