By; RAYMOND TEDUNJAYE, Lagos
A major fire outbreak was at the weekend, averted in Lagos following the prompt response of operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) which prevented the spilling of petroleum products from a fallen tanker into residential buildings.
Our correspondent gathered that the incident which would have resulted into a major disaster, occurred at Ajayi Junction along Oke-Ira Road by Excellence Hotel, Ogba, Ikeja.
The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq in a statement, confirmed that a tanker fully loaded with petroleum product fell down and had its contents spilling towards residential buildings.
It reads, ” In order to avert another imminent fire disaster, LASTMA officials as first emergency responder after arriving at the scene around at exact 8:00pm, immediately called other emergency responders particularly the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services.
“After arriving at the scene, our personnel immediately secured the environment against area boys including other members of the public who had already wanted to be scooping spilling fuel from the tanker,” he informed.
Mr. Adebayo confirmed that Policemen from Oke-Ira Area ‘G’ Police Division provided security backup at the scene with the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Services doing the needful.
He confirmed further that motorists coming from Haruna or Ojodu Berger end were diverted through Excellence Hotel to come out from Muyibi Street and link Oke-Ira proper to continue their journey.
According to him, Investigation revealed that trans-loading commences immediately another tanker was brought to the scene by the owner.
