FRSC, fire service contain gas truck fire at Otedola bridge

FRSC rescue team at a road accident scene

The Federal Road Safety Corps on Wednesday detailed how its rescue operatives swiftly collaborated with the Fire Service and other emergency responders to contain a burning gas truck at the Otedola Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Tuesday.

The FRSC, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, noted that their prompt action prevented further destruction and potential fatalities.

The crash, which occurred during peak traffic hours, involved 11 male adults, with five individuals injured and two fatalities reported.

The incident, which caused a massive traffic jam, was believed to have been triggered by a mechanical failure in one of the vehicles, specifically brake failure.

A total of 15 vehicles were involved in the multiple collision, highlighting the severity of the crash.

According to the statement, the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, expressed deep concern over the preventable nature of the accident and reiterated the importance of strict adherence to safety protocols for vehicles carrying hazardous goods.

Mohammed warned fleet managers, vehicle owners, and drivers to prioritise safety measures in managing their fleets to avoid such incidents.

He further cautioned that any violations would be met with appropriate sanctions under the National Road Traffic Regulations.

The statement noted that the Corps Marshal emphasised that the FRSC would continue to deploy its resources and expertise to handle emergency situations, ensuring the safety of all road users.

He also urged the public to remain alert and report any emergencies to the FRSC or other relevant authorities through their toll-free emergency line, 122.

“The Corps Marshal, FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, who expressed his displeasure over the preventable crash, called on all fleet managers to prioritise safety precautions in fleet management.

“He warned against neglecting necessary safety measures, stating that appropriate sanctions would continue to be imposed on drivers and vehicle owners who compromise safety at the expense of other road users, in accordance with the provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations.

“He affirmed that the FRSC will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all road users and will not hesitate to deploy resources and expertise to respond to any emergency situation.

“The Corps Marshal also urged all road users to remain vigilant and report any emergency situations to the FRSC or other relevant authorities through the Corps’ toll-free emergency line, 122,” the statement read in part.