Sanwo-Olu Condemns Fuel Scooping at Apapa Tanker Accident

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed disappointment over the actions of some residents who scooped fuel from a fallen tanker at the Liverpool Bridge in Apapa, describing the behaviour as reckless and dangerous.

The governor lamented that those involved failed to prioritise their safety, noting that their actions exposed them to grave danger. He, however, commended the swift response of first responders, including the police, for promptly securing the scene and preventing possible loss of lives and property.

Sanwo-Olu warned residents against engaging in such risky acts, stressing the need for discipline and adherence to safety guidelines. Speaking on broader issues of public indiscipline, particularly the indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians, he disclosed that stricter penalties would be enforced this year. He added that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) had been directed to arrest offenders to serve as a deterrent to others.

On the ongoing demolition exercise in the Makoko area, the governor maintained that evacuation notices had been issued more than two years ago to residents living within 150 to 250 metres of high-tension power lines. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the safety of lives and property, assuring that affected residents would receive palliatives and relocation grants as compensation.

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that his government would remain resolute in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Lagos residents.

Meanwhile, the governor has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged the “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” into law. The budget, valued at about N4.4 trillion, was recently approved by the Lagos State House of Assembly, an increase from the N4.2 trillion earlier presented in December.

Describing the 2026 budget as the final one his administration would fully implement, Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism that Lagosians would be the greatest beneficiaries. He commended the Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, and other lawmakers for their diligence, pledging continued collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government.

Representing the Speaker, Majority Leader Noheem Adams praised the governor’s people-focused policies, noting that the budget was thoroughly scrutinised and reflects current economic realities. Earlier, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Ope George, explained that the budget was designed to drive economic growth, accelerate infrastructure development, improve transportation, and maintain fiscal responsibility.