Disaster averted as 33,000-litre ethanol tanker falls in Lagos

A truck carrying 33,000 litres of ethanol crashed on the Second Rainbow Bridge in Lagos, prompting rapid emergency response efforts. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency reported that no casualties were reported in the incident on Wednesday. The tanker, a FOTON truck with registration number APP 346 YC, was being driven by the driver when they attempted to make a turn, causing the vehicle to lose control and overturn.

Preliminary investigations suggest the driver was speeding, which led to the turntable detaching and falling onto the roundabout, blocking traffic. The Eagle Response Team, along with other responders, quickly cordoned off the area and implemented crowd and traffic control measures due to the volatile nature of ethanol and the potential for fire and explosion.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, along with the Federal Fire Service, applied chemical foam to suppress fumes and prevent any secondary incidents. Emergency responders, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, worked together to secure the scene and manage traffic.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency's Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, praised the coordinated and tactical efforts that averted a major disaster and resulted in no loss of life or casualties.