Fuel Tanker Explosion Sparks 24-Hour Gridlock on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
A petrol tanker explosion near NASFAT Camp on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has caused a massive traffic gridlock stretching into its second day, leaving thousands of motorists and commuters stranded in what many describe as a “travel nightmare.”
Incident Details
The accident occurred around 3:45pm on Wednesday when a fully-loaded fuel tanker overturned and burst into flames, sending thick black smoke billowing across the highway. Despite emergency responders containing the fire within hours, the resulting damage has left sections of Nigeria’s busiest expressway completely impassable.
Commuter Anguish
As of Thursday afternoon:
• Ibadan-bound traffic remains at a complete standstill
• Lagos-bound vehicles are being diverted to just two service lanes
• Some travelers have been stuck in the same spot for over 12 hours
“I left Mowe at 6am to get to Berger – normally a 25-minute drive. It’s now 2pm and I can still see the building I left from,” fumed commercial bus driver Tunde Oke.
Failed Emergency Response
Despite assurances from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) that the road would be cleared overnight, our correspondent observed:
• No heavy-duty equipment on site as of Thursday morning
• Only four FRSC officials directing traffic at the scene
• Wreckage still blocking two of three express lanes
“The government keeps promising better emergency response, but we see the same failures every time,” said civil engineer Adetola Johnson, one of thousands forced to abandon their vehicles.
Economic Impact
The gridlock has caused:
• Massive losses for logistics companies
• Perishable goods rotting in stranded trucks
• Over 200% fare hikes by desperate commercial drivers
Authorities Respond
When contacted, Ogun State FRSC spokesperson Florence Okpe said: “We’re working with other agencies to clear the obstruction. Motorists should exercise patience and consider alternative routes.”
However, our checks revealed no visible alternative route arrangements for light vehicles.
Safety Concerns
Medical personnel have raised alarms about:
• Stranded passengers suffering dehydration
• Rising cases of heat exhaustion
• Pregnant women and elderly travelers in distress
Way Forward
Transportation experts are calling for:
Immediate deployment of heavy-duty wreckers
Establishment of emergency traffic diversion protocols
Creation of dedicated highway response teams
As dusk fell Thursday, thousands remained trapped on the expressway, with no clear resolution in sight.
