The driver of a diesel-laden tanker that overturned on the Apapa Bridge, inbound Mile 2, Lagos, will face sanctions following investigations into the incident, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed.
Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, disclosed the development while speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, January 20.
The tanker overturned on Monday, January 19, spilling fuel across the roadway. Footage from the scene showed residents collecting diesel from the tanker, raising concerns about safety.
Bakare-Oki explained that the Nigeria Police Force is leading the investigation into the accident. “It is the responsibility of the Nigerian Police to investigate all accidents. I am confident that investigations are ongoing. I cannot preempt the decision of the investigation, but I can assure you the driver will not go unpunished,” he said.
He further commended the swift response of emergency agencies, noting that the Lagos State Fire Service spent additional hours clearing the spilled fuel to prevent a potential fire hazard. “Immediately the tanker was removed, the area was cleared. The Fire Service ensured that all residual fuel was safely dealt with to avert any fire incident,” Bakare-Oki added.
Regarding the cause of the crash, LASTMA is awaiting the outcome of the police investigation and has not drawn any preliminary conclusions. “We will await the decision of the police investigation,” he stated.
The incident underscores the ongoing need for strict adherence to safety regulations by commercial drivers to prevent accidents and safeguard public safety.
