A deadly Lekki gas explosion has left residents in shock after a late-night crash triggered a massive fire along the Lekki-Epe Expressway. Two lives were lost, while properties worth millions were destroyed in minutes.
The incident, which happened in the early hours of Saturday, caught many off guard. Moreover, the scale of destruction raised fresh concerns about road safety and tanker operations in Lagos.
Witnesses said the explosion occurred around 2:36 a.m. near Tera Ahmed bus stop in Sangotedo.
According to officials, a gas tanker had reportedly been stationary on the road when it was hit by a fast-moving tipper truck. The impact was said to have triggered a powerful explosion. In addition, the resulting fire spread rapidly to nearby buildings.
The blaze engulfed several structures, including three warehouses and multiple roadside shops. Furthermore, a gym facility and a generator house were also affected.
Firefighters from different stations were deployed to the scene. Meanwhile, the fire was contained before it could spread to a nearby petrol station.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the tipper truck and his assistant lost their lives in the incident. However, the gas tanker driver was able to escape unharmed.
Emergency teams later recovered damaged vehicles from the scene. These included buses, a car, and industrial equipment.
Officials noted that the road has since been partially reopened. Meanwhile, investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
