Motorists, passersby go panic after petrol tanker explode on Lagos-Ibadan Exp.

Passersby and motorists were on Saturday thrown into panic mode following injuries sustained by no fewer than 11 persons after a petrol tanker exploded on Otedola bridge end of Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Lagos State.

It was learnt that the fire which emanated from explosion that occurred at about 6 pm has spread to Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) and a containerized truck on the road.

As gathered, the tanker on the outbound service lane of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway exploded and left motorists as well as passersby to raise concerns that the explosion could have claim lives particularly the driver and motor-boy.

As the panic intensified, an eyewitness told The Guild that the tanker and container truck drivers escaped immediately after realising the enormity of the explosion.

Confirming the fears of the motorists, Lagos Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Olusegun Ogungbemide, said that no fewer than 11 people sustained injuries when a tanker, loaded with diesel, exploded.

the explosion occurred when the tanker rolled back and collided with another Articulated truck carrying goods and a salon car.

“The impact of the collision resulted in the explosion.

“About 11 passengers involved in the crash but no death was recorded. The rescue teams of FRSC, Lagos Fire Service and Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) are quickly mobilised to the scene for the rescue operation.

“The rescue team of Lagos Fire service are making frantic effort to extinguish the fire while FRSC and other traffic, the management team are on the ground controlling traffic flow,’’ the commander stated.

He advised drivers and owners of articulated vehicles to put their vehicles in proper shape and maintain minimum safety standard.

The commander also implored the public to be more vigilant while using the road, especially during this festive period.

Motorists, passersby go panic after petrol tanker explode on Lagos-Ibadan Exp.

By Monsurudeen Olowoopejo