LASTMA saves 17 people after CNG bus fire in Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued 17 people after a commercial bus powered by compressed natural gas caught fire due to a gas explosion. This incident happened along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, specifically at Berger Bus Stop on the Lagos-bound side.

One other passenger suffered serious burn injuries during the fire. LASTMA shared this information in a statement released on Wednesday by Adebayo Taofiq, the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department.

LASTMA reported that the bus, which had registration number EKY 798 YK, was carrying 18 people, including the driver. They were traveling from the Mowe-Ibafo area towards Lagos when the fire broke out.

The statement explained, "The unfortunate incident involved 18 occupants travelling from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos when the fully loaded vehicle reportedly caught fire, triggering panic among passengers and other motorists plying the busy expressway."

In a quick response, LASTMA personnel rushed to the scene and managed to evacuate and save 17 occupants, including the driver, without any injuries. Sadly, one male passenger, who was sitting at the back of the bus, suffered severe burns during the fire.

That injured passenger was taken to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre at Toll Gate for urgent medical care. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also arrived to put out the fire, stopping it from spreading further.

Officers from the Ojodu Police Division were present at the scene to maintain order during the rescue and firefighting efforts. The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the authority's staff for their bravery and quick action.

Bakare-Oki said the incident highlights the need for quick emergency responses and teamwork among agencies to handle road accidents. He also urged commercial transport operators, especially those using CNG-powered buses, to ensure regular checks, follow safety standards, and maintain their gas storage and delivery systems.

He reaffirmed LASTMA's commitment to protecting lives, ensuring smooth traffic flow, and working closely with emergency response agencies across Lagos State. Bakare-Oki also thanked the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Nigeria Police Force for their help during the operation.