VIDEO: Lagos residents risk fire disaster as they scoop diesel from fallen tanker in Apapa

• A diesel-laden tanker overturned on the Tincan–Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, spilling its contents and disrupting traffic.

• Videos showed residents and passersby using jerrycans and other containers to scoop diesel from the fallen tanker.

• Authorities warned residents against approaching the scene because of the risk of a fire outbreak.

• Emergency agencies, including LASTMA, LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, responded to the incident. 

A dangerous situation unfolded in Apapa, Lagos, after residents were seen scooping diesel from an overturned tanker despite the risk of a possible fire outbreak.

The diesel-laden tanker overturned on the Tincan–Liverpool Bridge, inward Mile 2, spilling its contents onto the road and causing disruption along the busy corridor. 

Videos circulating online showed several residents gathering around the fallen tanker with jerrycans, buckets and other containers, collecting the spilled diesel from the scene. 

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the tanker was loaded with diesel and that the product spread across the bridge after the tank was damaged. The agency said traffic was diverted as emergency teams moved in to manage the situation.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) also confirmed that emergency responders were activated following the incident and warned members of the public against scooping the spilled product or engaging in any activity that could trigger a secondary disaster. 

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service later moved to secure the scene and prevent further danger, while security agencies worked to control the crowd gathering around the tanker. 

RELATED: VIDEO: “We don’t need money, fix our roads” — Edo residents protest Benin-Agbor bypass

Fuel scooping after tanker accidents has repeatedly resulted in deadly incidents across Nigeria. Authorities have consistently warned that leaked petroleum products can ignite from sources such as flames, sparks or other ignition points, turning rescue scenes into disaster zones.

In October 2024, more than 100 people were killed in Jigawa State after a petrol tanker explosion involving residents who had gathered to scoop fuel from the fallen tanker. 

No fire outbreak was reported in the Apapa incident, and emergency responders were able to contain the situation.