Chaos at Tincan‑Liverpool Bridge as Fuel Tanker Overturns, Residents Scoop Spilled Diesel

A diesel‑laden tanker overturned on the busy Tincan‑Liverpool Bridge in the Apapa area of Lagos, spilling its contents and prompting a chaotic scene as residents and commuters rushed to collect the fuel with containers and jerrycans.

Eyewitnesses say the tanker tipped over during the Monday morning rush hour, with the highly flammable diesel spilling across the carriageway leading toward Mile 2 and causing traffic disruption on the major road corridor.

Despite the obvious danger, large crowds converged at the scene in the early hours to scoop up the spilled fuel before emergency responders could secure the area.

Officials from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force, and other emergency agencies were deployed to contain the spill, divert traffic, and prevent a potential fire or explosion.

Authorities have repeatedly warned the public against the dangerous practice of scooping fuel from accident sites, as spilled petroleum products are highly combustible and can lead to devastating secondary incidents.

Traffic was partially diverted while responders worked to neutralise the spilled fuel and clear the bridge, with no immediate reports of serious injuries.