Motorists along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway were thrown into panic on Tuesday evening following a tanker explosion near the Otedola Bridge.
The incident, which occurred around 7 p.m., sent thick flames and smoke into the sky, as captured in videoscirculating online.
Although the exact cause of the explosion remains unconfirmed, eyewitnesses suggest that a petrol tanker may have been responsible for the blast.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Nosa Okunbor, stated that emergency responders were already at the scene.
“Some sort of explosion. Awaiting preliminary report. LASEMA’s Tiger Response Team at the location,” Okunbor said.
Also confirming the incident, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said nearly all structures, including a church, were affected, disrupting traffic in the area.
“A tanker has fallen and caught fire, affecting nearby structures, including a church, residential house, and mechanics’ parks at Otedola Under Bridge, adjacent to CMD Road.
“Fire Rescue teams are currently at the scene, working to extinguish the fire and mitigate the situation,” LASTMA stated.
“Due to the incident, there is currently no movement in or out of Otedola Under Bridge, resulting in a complete blockade of the area,” the agency added.
