Get Guardian on GoogleThe Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued 17 passengers after a CNG-powered commercial bus burst into flames at Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-bound section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved a fully loaded Hiace bus with registration number EKY 798 YK travelling from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos.
According to LASTMA, the vehicle had 18 occupants, including the driver, when it reportedly caught fire following a gas explosion, causing panic among passengers and other motorists.
LASTMA personnel who arrived at the scene swiftly evacuated 17 occupants, including the driver, to safety.
However, a male passenger seated at the rear of the bus sustained severe burn injuries in the incident. He was evacuated by LASTMA officers and taken to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, Toll Gate, for medical treatment.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service subsequently deployed personnel and equipment to put out the fire and prevent it from spreading.
Personnel of the Ojodu Police Division also secured the scene and maintained law and order during the rescue and firefighting operations.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the agency’s officers and other emergency responders for their prompt intervention.
Bakare-Oki said the incident highlighted the importance of rapid emergency response and effective collaboration among agencies in preventing loss of lives during road emergencies.
He urged commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to ensure regular professional inspection and maintenance, especially of gas storage and delivery systems.
He also advised operators to comply strictly with prescribed safety standards to reduce the risk of fire and other emergencies.
The LASTMA boss commended the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their support during the rescue operation.
