Diesel tanker overturns and bursts into flames on Abeokuta Expressway, injuring one as emergency teams quickly contain the blaze

A diesel-laden tanker overturned and burst into flames on Wednesday night along the Abeokuta Expressway inward Agege, leaving one person injured and prompting motorists to flee for safety.

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The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) deployed its Response Team after receiving multiple distress calls, activating the state’s emergency response plan.

Responders found the tanker, fully loaded with diesel, lying on its side and engulfed in flames.

Preliminary investigations indicate the driver lost control while navigating the busy expressway, causing the vehicle to topple and spill its cargo onto the roadway and drainage system.

Eyewitnesses said the spilled diesel ignited instantly, sending fire racing along the drainage and producing thick smoke that obscured the expressway.

Motorists abandoned their vehicles as flames threatened nearby shops and residences.

The tanker was completely gutted, but a coordinated response prevented a major disaster.

Firefighters from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service worked through the night to extinguish residual flames, while police and officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) sealed off the area and diverted traffic.

Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke, confirmed that no life was lost.

“One adult male dispatcher sustained burns and has been taken to a nearby hospital. The fire has been contained, and surrounding properties were not affected,” he said.

Dr. Oke added, “Our teams are clearing the area, securing the drainage, and ensuring there is no risk of re-ignition while we carry out a full incident assessment.

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The incident underscores the hazards posed by heavy fuel transport on busy urban highways and the importance of rapid emergency response to prevent widespread damage.