The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has warned residents against scooping spilled petroleum products following a diesel tanker accident on the Liverpool Bridge along the Apapa–Tin Can Island corridor.
Emergency responders moved quickly in the early hours of Monday after the tanker overturned and began leaking diesel onto the roadway. Their swift action prevented a possible fire or explosion.
Videos shared on social media showed the tanker lying on its side as diesel spilled onto the bridge. Some individuals attempted to scoop the highly flammable product, raising serious safety concerns.
Emergency Teams Secure Spill Site
LASEMA Permanent Secretary Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu confirmed the incident alongside Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Controller-General, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye. Both officials said coordinated emergency efforts brought the situation under control.
Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu said responders activated emergency protocols immediately after receiving the alert. Teams from LASEMA, the Fire and Rescue Service, the Nigerian Police, and other security agencies arrived at the scene without delay.
“Our team received a report of a fallen tanker leaking fuel and responded immediately,” he said.
He urged residents to avoid the area and warned that open flames or fuel scooping could trigger a major fire. He also advised motorists to use alternative routes while recovery operations continue.
Fire Service Prevents Secondary Incident
Mrs. Adeseye said the Fire and Rescue Service stationed water tankers at strategic points around the bridge to prevent ignition.
“The service is salvaging a 45,000-litre diesel tanker that overturned at Liverpool Bridge, outward Apapa, Tin Can Island,” she said.
She added that responders secured the tanker without escalation. Security personnel remain on the ground to control crowds and prevent further danger.