LASTMA, Fire Service avert late-night catastrophe as truck inferno is swiftly contained in Lagos

Stanley Ihedigbo

A potentially devastating late-night fire incident was averted over the weekend following the swift and coordinated intervention of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service along the Secretariat inward Otedola Bridge axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

According to the Director, Public Affairs/ Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the incident, which occurred on Saturday night, involved a Mack truck conveying an empty 20-foot container.

The preliminary findings, the truck suddenly went up in flames while in motion, posing an immediate danger to other road users and critical infrastructure within the busy corridor.

Eyewitnesses reported moments of panic as the fire intensified, raising fears of a possible explosion or wider disaster, especially given the strategic importance and high traffic volume of the Otedola Bridge axis.

However, in a display of promptness and operational efficiency, LASTMA personnel quickly mobilised to the scene. Their immediate priority, saving lives, was achieved as the truck driver was successfully rescued from the burning vehicle without sustaining any injuries.

Recognising the high-risk nature of the situation, LASTMA officials promptly activated emergency response protocols and engaged the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.

The combined efforts of both agencies ensured that the fire was rapidly brought under control, preventing it from spreading and escalating into a major catastrophe.

Their decisive intervention not only curtailed the inferno but also enabled the swift restoration of normal traffic flow along the route, thereby reducing disruption to commuters and economic activities in the area.

Commending the response team, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the operatives for their bravery, professionalism, and composure under pressure. He noted that their actions reflected the agency’s commitment to maintaining safety and order across Lagos roads.

Bakare-Oki also reiterated LASTMA’s dedication to protecting lives and property, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration in emergency management.

He, however, advised motorists to ensure regular maintenance of their vehicles, particularly electrical and mechanical components, to prevent unexpected breakdowns and fire outbreaks on the road.

The agency reaffirmed its resolve to continue delivering efficient traffic control and emergency response services, assuring residents of its readiness to safeguard the state’s road network at all times.