Panic gripped the Tincan–Liverpool Bridge area of Apapa, Lagos, on Monday after a tanker conveying Premium Motor Spirit toppled on the busy route, spilling fuel and prompting residents to rush to the scene with containers.
A video shared by Channels Television captured dozens of people scrambling under the bridge to scoop the leaking petrol despite the clear risk of fire and explosion.
“The incident is happening live at the Tincan Liverpool Bridge, where a tanker overturned and people are scooping fuel,” the broadcaster posted alongside the footage.
The development has renewed concerns over Nigeria’s recurring fuel disaster culture, as residents continue to ignore repeated warnings by emergency agencies against approaching crash scenes involving petroleum tankers.
Fuel tanker accidents and subsequent explosions have claimed hundreds of lives nationwide in recent years, with experts blaming poor road conditions, reckless driving and public ignorance.
Authorities had yet to issue an official statement as of press time.