17 rescued, one injured in Lagos CNG bus fire

A Compressed Natural Gas-powered commercial bus caught fire along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulting in the rescue of 17 passengers and one injured individual. The incident occurred at the Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-bound section of the expressway. The bus, with registration number EKY 798 YK, was transporting 18 occupants, including the driver, from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos when the fire erupted.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) swiftly responded to the scene, evacuating 17 passengers and the driver without any injuries. One male passenger sustained severe burn injuries while seated at the rear of the vehicle and was transported to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre for treatment. Firefighters from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the blaze, preventing further spread.

Police personnel from the Ojodu Division provided security and maintained order at the scene. LASTMA Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, disclosed the details of the incident in a statement. The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the authority's personnel for their prompt and professional response, emphasizing the importance of rapid emergency response and inter-agency collaboration in mitigating the consequences of road accidents.

The incident highlighted the need for commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to prioritize regular professional inspections and adhere to safety standards.