A passenger sustained severe burn injuries after a Compressed Natural Gas-powered commercial bus caught fire near Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, with 17 other occupants rescued.

The incident occurred on the Lagos-bound section of the expressway on Wednesday as the vehicle travelled from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos.

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The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority disclosed the development in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq.

The agency identified the vehicle as a commercial bus with registration number EKY 798 YK, which was carrying 18 people, including the driver, when it reportedly caught fire following a gas explosion.

According to LASTMA, the sudden outbreak of fire caused panic among the occupants and other motorists on the busy road.

Its officials quickly arrived at the scene and evacuated 17 people, including the driver, without injuries.

However, a male passenger seated at the rear of the bus sustained severe burns during the incident.

The injured victim was taken to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre at Toll Gate for immediate medical attention.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also responded to the emergency and successfully put out the fire, preventing it from spreading.

Meanwhile, police officers from the Ojodu Division were deployed to maintain security and ensure order around the scene.

Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the agency’s personnel for their swift intervention and effective handling of the emergency.

He said the incident demonstrated the importance of prompt rescue operations, proper coordination among emergency agencies and adequate training for personnel.

Bakare-Oki also urged commercial vehicle operators, especially those using CNG-powered buses, to carry out routine professional inspections and observe all relevant safety regulations.

He specifically advised transport operators to ensure that their vehicles’ gas storage and delivery systems were properly maintained to minimise potential hazards.

The LASTMA boss reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to safeguarding road users, maintaining traffic flow and working with other emergency services to protect lives across Lagos State.