FRSC orders investigation into Otedola Bridge tanker fire

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the tanker crash and fire beneath Otedola Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, gave the directive following the incident, which occurred at about 4:10 p.m. on Monday.

The crash involved a diesel-laden tanker that plunged into the underpass beneath the bridge on the outward section of the expressway.

The Corps Public Education Officer, Mr Osondu Ohaeri, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

Mohammed said the crash triggered a major fire, highlighting the dangers of reckless driving, particularly among operators of heavy-duty vehicles transporting petroleum products.

He said initial reports indicated that no lives were lost, while two adult male occupants of the tanker sustained injuries and were taken to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre for treatment.

According to him, preliminary findings by the Lagos Sector Command identified excessive speed as the suspected cause of the crash.

“The FRSC rescue team arrived at the scene at about 4:20 p.m., following a report received at 4:15 p.m., and joined other emergency responders in efforts to contain the fire, manage traffic and prevent further casualties,” he said.

The response involved the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Police and other emergency agencies.

The corps marshal described the incident as a reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of irresponsible driving, particularly when hazardous cargoes and busy public infrastructure were involved.

He said the investigation would establish the circumstances surrounding the crash, adding that appropriate action would be taken based on its findings.

Mohammed stressed that transporting petroleum products required a high level of discipline, professional competence and strict compliance with safety regulations.

He said tanker drivers must recognise that the size of their vehicles, the weight of their cargoes and the risks associated with losing control left little room for error.

“Speeding, dangerous manoeuvres, poor vehicle maintenance and failure to comply with prescribed safety requirements can turn an ordinary journey into a disaster with devastating consequences,” he said.

The FRSC boss also warned fleet operators and tanker owners against prioritising commercial interests over human safety.

He said unrealistic delivery schedules, inadequate supervision of drivers and poor vehicle maintenance must not be allowed to expose Nigerians to preventable dangers.

He called for improved driver training, effective monitoring of driving behaviour, regular vehicle inspections and strict compliance with speed limits and other road safety regulations.

Mohammed commended the emergency responders for their coordinated efforts, noting that prompt collaboration was essential to containing emergencies and preventing further casualties.

He urged motorists to exercise caution around emergency scenes and comply with traffic control instructions to enable responders to carry out their duties effectively.

He also warned members of the public against approaching burning tankers to scoop spilled petroleum products or take photographs and videos of such incidents.

According to him, such actions could expose people to potentially fatal dangers, while obstructing emergency responders could further complicate rescue operations.

Mohammed said the corps would intensify public education, operational surveillance and enforcement to promote responsible driving and protect road users.

He added that the FRSC remained committed to preventing avoidable crashes, investigating road incidents and ensuring accountability wherever negligence was established.

The corps marshal reiterated that road safety was a collective national responsibility, urging drivers, fleet operators and other road users to ensure that their actions did not endanger innocent lives.

He called on tanker operators and other motorists to prioritise safety and comply with traffic regulations to prevent similar incidents.