On July 17, 2022, a tanker truck caused a serious accident in Ota, Nigeria. The incident occurred at around 2:56 a.m. when the truck, coming from Lagos, rolled backwards while climbing a hill and overturned on Akeja road. Fortunately, no deaths were reported in this accident.
According to the South West Zone Commander of the Road Traffic Regulation Agency (TRACE), Adekunle Ajibade, the accident was due to a mechanical problem. However, he stressed the importance of tanker truck owners ensuring their vehicles are in good condition and well maintained before putting them on the road.
The accident caused a major traffic jam, with access roads completely blocked. Local authorities, including TRACE, the police, the oil workers union and the fire department, quickly intervened to restore order in the area. As a safety measure, the road was closed to vehicle traffic to avoid any further incidents.
Commander Ajibade mentioned some alternative routes for motorists including the Command – Osi – Ikola road or the Lagos/Abeokuta expressway. He also clarified that the transshipment of the tanker had started and the vehicle would be removed as soon as the transshipment was completed.
This accident once again raises the question of the safety of tankers on the roads. It recalls the importance of regular and rigorous maintenance of these vehicles, as well as the need for owners to ensure their compliance with current standards. Local authorities must also strengthen road safety and heavy goods vehicle enforcement measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
In conclusion, this tanker accident in Ota, Nigeria highlights the potential dangers associated with these vehicles on the roads. It highlights the importance of tanker maintenance and owner vigilance. The authorities must also play an active role in preventing such accidents. Road safety should always be a top priority for all road users.