Tragedy struck on Tuesday night as a gas-laden articulated vehicle exploded near the Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming at least two lives.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement, revealing that the accident occurred around 8:10 p.m. when the truck, attempting to ascend the link road to the expressway, lost control, somersaulted, and spilled its gas contents. The resulting explosion ignited an intense fire that rapidly spread across the area.
According to the police, the exact registration number and make of the vehicle are yet to be determined. However, preliminary reports indicate devastating losses, including:
- Four buildings razed by the fire.
- 15 vehicles — including tricycles — burnt beyond recognition.
- An unspecified number of shops and household properties destroyed.
- A private hospital partially affected, with details about victims there still unclear.
The number of casualties is yet to be fully determined, but two bodies have been recovered so far, with emergency responders continuing their rescue operations late into the night.
The police assured the public that first responders, including the Lagos State Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Emergency Management Agencies, were actively working to extinguish the fire, secure the area, and attend to any injured persons.
“The number of human lives lost is still being quantified as rescue operations remain ongoing,” the police statement read.
Authorities have urged commuters to avoid the Otedola Bridge route as efforts to clear the wreckage and manage traffic flow are underway.
Further updates will be provided as more details emerge from the ongoing rescue and investigation efforts.
