“No Journey Is Worth A Life”: FRSC Probes Otedola Bridge Inferno, Reports No Fatalities

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has ordered an immediate investigation into Monday’s tanker inferno beneath Otedola Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, with preliminary findings pointing to excessive speed as the cause of the crash.

The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, gave the directive following the incident, which occurred at about 4.10pm when a diesel-laden tanker plunged into the underpass beneath the bridge on the outward section of the expressway, triggering a fire.

According to an initial report from the FRSC, two adult male occupants sustained injuries and were taken to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre for treatment, while no fatalities were recorded.

Preliminary findings by the Lagos Sector Command identified excessive speed as the cause of the crash.

Reacting, Mohammed described the incident as a “grave reminder” that irresponsible driving could have consequences beyond the driver and vehicle, particularly when hazardous cargo and heavily trafficked public infrastructure were involved.

He directed that the circumstances surrounding the crash be thoroughly investigated, with appropriate action taken in line with the findings.

The Corps Marshal said transporting petroleum products required “exceptional discipline, professional competence and strict adherence to safety standards.”

He warned that speeding, dangerous manoeuvres, poor vehicle maintenance and disregard for safety regulations could turn an ordinary journey into a disaster, endangering lives and public infrastructure.

Mohammed also cautioned tanker owners and fleet operators against placing commercial considerations above human safety, saying unrealistic delivery schedules, inadequate driver supervision and poor maintenance must not expose Nigerians to preventable danger.

He called for stronger driver training, effective monitoring of driving behaviour, regular vehicle inspections and strict compliance with speed limits.

The FRSC said its rescue team arrived at the scene at about 4.20pm, following a report received at 4.15pm, and joined the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Police and other emergency responders to contain the fire and manage traffic.

Mohammed commended the responders for their coordinated intervention and warned members of the public against approaching burning tankers to scoop spilled petroleum products or take photographs and videos.

He said such actions could expose people to “potentially fatal consequences,” urging motorists to obey traffic control instructions and avoid obstructing emergency personnel.

The Corps Marshal reiterated that road safety was “not merely a regulatory obligation but a collective national responsibility,” urging drivers, fleet operators and other road users to ensure their actions did not endanger innocent Nigerians.