A potential tragedy was narrowly avoided on Sunday in Lagos after a speeding Lexus SUV crashed into a fully loaded petrol tanker near Berger Suya, inward Mile 2. The impact triggered a chain reaction that damaged several vehicles displayed for sale along the roadside.

According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the prompt intervention of emergency responders prevented what could have been a devastating explosion.

In a statement by LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, preliminary findings revealed that the Lexus SUV, with registration number LSR 606 XH, was travelling at high speed before it rammed into the tanker transporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

“The collision caused the tanker driver to lose control, forcing the vehicle off the road and into multiple unregistered cars parked for sale,” Bakare-Oki said.

He added that LASTMA officials stationed nearby quickly arrived at the scene, secured the area, and restricted vehicular movement to ensure public safety. The agency also supervised the safe transloading of the highly flammable fuel into another tanker.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, which also responded swiftly, flushed and neutralised the spilled fuel to eliminate any risk of explosion. Officers from the Trinity Police Division provided security during the transloading and evacuation exercise.

Bakare-Oki disclosed that the Lexus driver sustained injuries and was handed over to the police for further investigation, while the tanker driver fled the scene immediately after the incident.

He commended the coordinated response among LASTMA, the fire service, and the police, describing it as a demonstration of professionalism and preparedness within Lagos State’s emergency response framework.

“The swift containment of the situation prevented a potential disaster, given the volatile nature of the product involved,” he noted.

Bakare-Oki cautioned motorists against reckless driving and overspeeding, stressing that excessive speed remains one of the major causes of avoidable road crashes.

He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through effective traffic management, public awareness, and rapid emergency response.

“The agency will continue to strengthen its 24-hour operations and collaboration with other emergency and security bodies to ensure that road incidents in Lagos are promptly and safely managed,” the statement added.