A 30-tonne gas tanker exploded on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway late Tuesday, igniting a massive fire that engulfed a church, a bungalow, and four vehicles near the Otedola Bridge in Omole, Lagos. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, in a statement share with TheWest, confirmed the incident occurred around 8:00 p.m., with no casualties reported as of press time.
According to Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the DAF Gas Truck, whose registration number remains unknown, was navigating the expressway when the accident occurred. The ensuing explosion sent fireballs into the air, quickly spreading to a Redeem Church, an adjacent bungalow, and nearby vehicles.
“Firefighting operations are ongoing to prevent further damage,” Adeseye said in a statement. “We are relieved to report no casualties at this time, but updates will follow as the situation develops.”
The blaze, which caused significant damage to the affected structures, has drawn a swift response from emergency services. Officials are working to contain the fire and assess the full extent of the damage.
The incident has raised concerns about safety along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a critical transport corridor often plagued by accidents. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution and avoid the area as operations continue.