LASTMA Averts Major Fire Disaster as Petrol Tanker Overturns on Lekki–Epe Expressway.
In the early hours of Sunday, February 8, 2026, a potential catastrophe was narrowly avoided on the Lekki–Epe Expressway in Lagos when a fully loaded Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker overturned at Awoyaya.
The incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. on the inward carriageway. The articulated tanker reportedly lost control and tipped over while navigating the busy expressway.
Carrying a large volume of highly flammable petrol, the accident posed an immediate risk of explosion, fire outbreak, fuel scooping by bystanders, and secondary collisions in the high-traffic area.
Thanks to the swift response of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), a major midnight fire disaster was averted.
LASTMA’s Rescue and Recovery Unit quickly arrived at the scene after receiving a distress alert. Operatives established a secure perimeter, controlled traffic, prevented unauthorized fuel collection, and coordinated with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to implement fire prevention measures.
No casualties were reported, and traffic was temporarily suspended before being cautiously restored. The fuel was safely trans-loaded into another tanker under strict supervision.
This prompt inter-agency collaboration highlights the effectiveness of LASTMA and emergency services in managing high-risk incidents on Lagos roads.
Key Safety Reminder
Tanker drivers should prioritize vehicle maintenance, exercise caution especially at night and follow all safety regulations to prevent such incidents.
Incidents like this underscore the ongoing challenges of road safety on major Lagos corridors like the Lekki–Epe Expressway.
Authorities continue to urge vigilance from all road users. For the latest Lagos traffic and safety updates, stay tuned to official LASTMA channels.
Keywords: LASTMA, Lekki Epe Expressway accident, petrol tanker overturn, fire averted Lagos, Awoyaya tanker incident, Lagos road safety
