At least 17 people, including the driver, have been rescued after a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered commercial bus exploded and caught fire along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
One male passenger sustained severe burn injuries in the incident, which occurred on Wednesday at Berger Bus Stop along the Lagos-bound section of the expressway.
The affected vehicle, a fully loaded Hiace bus with registration number EKY 798 YK, was reportedly conveying 18 occupants from the Mowe-Ibafo axis towards Lagos when it suddenly burst into flames following a gas explosion.
The injured passenger, who was seated at the rear of the bus, was taken to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre at the Toll Gate for medical attention.
According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), its personnel promptly mobilised to the scene and evacuated the occupants.
Officers of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also arrived and extinguished the fire to prevent it from spreading, while personnel from the Ojodu Police Division provided security and maintained order.
LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the agency’s personnel and appreciated the support of the fire service and the police during the rescue operation.
He said the incident highlighted the importance of prompt emergency response and cooperation among relevant agencies in preventing road disasters.
Bakare-Oki also urged commercial transport operators, particularly those using CNG-powered vehicles, to prioritise regular professional inspections, comply with safety standards and ensure proper maintenance of their gas storage and delivery systems.
