A diesel-laden tanker overturned on the Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, triggering a scramble by residents and passersby who scooped the leaked product beneath the bridge.
Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle toppled in the early hours during rush hour, before traffic management personnel arrived at the scene.
Videos circulating online showed individuals carrying jerrycans and assorted containers as they collected the diesel despite the clear danger.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said the affected section of the bridge was cordoned off to enable emergency responders secure the area.
The agency later announced that the road had been reopened after the spilled content was neutralised.
In a post on X, LASTMA said, “The road on Liverpool Bridge inward Apapa that was cordoned off has been reopened after the contents have been neutralised by men of the Lagos State Fire Service. LASTMA officials are doing the needful and traffic is expected to move better, while we await the arrival of a tow truck.”
Earlier, the agency had warned motorists of heavy congestion, noting that officials of the Lagos State Fire Service and rescue team were on ground, while a counter-flow traffic control measure was temporarily adopted.
The incident again highlights the recurring and dangerous practice of fuel scooping from fallen tankers across the country, often with tragic consequences.
(Agency Report)
