Lagos bridge accident draws fuel scoopers
Residents and passersby scooped diesel after a fuel tanker overturned on the Tincan Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, Lagos, early Monday. The accident caused disruption along the busy route as large crowds gathered beneath the bridge to collect the spilled product.
Eyewitnesses said the tanker tipped over during the morning rush hour, before traffic officials arrived at the scene. Videos circulating online showed people with jerrycans, buckets and other containers collecting diesel despite the obvious danger.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority later confirmed that the road had been temporarily closed but was reopened after officials of the Lagos State Fire Service neutralised the spilled fuel.
LASTMA said traffic control officers were deployed and vehicular movement was expected to improve while a tow truck was awaited to remove the tanker.
Earlier, the agency had warned motorists of slow movement in the area, noting that a counterflow system was put in place while emergency responders worked to prevent fire outbreaks.
Incidents of residents scooping fuel from fallen tankers have occurred repeatedly across the country, often with deadly consequences. In October 2024, more than 100 people died in Jigawa State after a petrol tanker exploded while residents were scooping fuel.
A similar incident in October 2025 in Niger State also claimed several lives after locals rushed to collect petrol from an overturned tanker.
