The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency has confirmed that a fuel tanker fell and began leaking diesel, triggering an emergency response at the scene.

In an urgent situation report issued on Monday, and signed by LASEMA Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the agency said emergency responders were immediately mobilised after reports of the incident.

“Our attention has been brought to a fallen tanker at the above location, which is leaking fuel. All emergency responders have been activated and are en route to the location,” the statement said.

LASEMA warned members of the public to stay away from the area, stressing that unsafe actions could lead to serious secondary incidents.

“Members of the public are urged to exercise EXTREME CAUTION to avoid any secondary incident from scooping product or lighting any flame near the area,” the agency cautioned.

Motorists were also advised to avoid the route and use alternative roads as emergency measures were activated.

“Motorists are advised to take alternative routes. Disaster management plan has been activated. Updates to follow,” LASEMA added.

Despite the warning, videos circulating on social media showed some residents scooping diesel from the fallen tanker, exposing themselves to significant danger.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority also confirmed the incident, stating that the tanker was carrying diesel and that the spill was spreading across the bridge due to damage to the tank.

“There’s a fallen tanker loaded with diesel on top Liverpool Bridge inward Mile 2. The diesel is spreading on the bridge as a result of the damaged tank,” LASTMA said in a statement on its official X handle.

LASTMA said security agencies had been alerted and traffic diverted to reduce risks to commuters, while authorities continued to warn that scooping fuel from accident scenes could lead to fire outbreaks and loss of lives as emergency teams worked to contain the situation.