For the second time within a week, petrol tanker caused mayhem in Nigeria. The first incidence happened in Onitsha with many deaths, now its in Lagos.
At least 44 shops, 21 vehicles and five houses were destroyed early yesterday when a tanker loaded with petrol fell from the Iyana-Ipaja overhead bridge and spilled its contents within the environs, covering almost five streets.
Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, who visited the scene, noted that the fallen tanker was a pointer to the fact that tanker drivers had to start to improve on their mode of operation. “We cannot continue to record loss of lives and property because our tanker drivers are not disciplined,” he said.
The governor said while government would continue to address their shortcomings, it would ensure that all those who lost property in the disaster were assisted. Ambode said he would receive the report of the fire incident tomorrow, adding that the government would ensure that something positive is done for life to return to normal in the area.
Speaking with journalists at the scene of the accident, the Director, Lagos State Fire Service, Rasak Fadipe, said the fire service responded promptly, and that no life was lost. Fadipe advised tanker drivers who want to drive at night to rest during the day to avoid fatigue.
