The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that a commercial minibus (popularly known as a Korope or Faka) burst into flames along the Okota-Mile 2 corridor (specifically the Ballet inward corridor to Mile 2) in the Isolo area.

The Incident Details​The Victims: Sadly, the driver and a female passenger seated in the front were trapped and burnt beyond recognition.

The Survivors: Eight other passengers were rescued from the wreckage by LASTMA officials who were on routine patrol in the area. They were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment for various degrees of burns.

​The Vehicle: A yellow commercial minibus with registration number SMK 823 YK.

​What Caused the Fire?​According to the preliminary investigation by LASTMA:

Reckless Maneuver: An unidentified private vehicle reportedly reversed abruptly on the main carriageway.

​The Crash: To avoid a collision, the speeding minibus applied its brakes sharply, causing it to lose control, overturn several times, and eventually ignite.

The Accelerant: Tragically, it was discovered that the driver was carrying a five-litre container of petrol inside the bus. This highly flammable substance ignited instantly upon impact, turning the vehicle into an inferno before the front-seat occupants could escape.

​Response and Warnings​Emergency responders from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and LASAMBUS eventually extinguished the blaze. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, expressed deep condolences and issued a stern warning to motorists against the dangerous practice of reversing on highways and carrying inflammable liquids in passenger vehicles.

This is a stark reminder of how quickly “fuel hoarding” or carrying petrol in a vehicle can turn an accident into a tragedy. Would you like me to keep an eye out for updates on the condition of the survivors or any news regarding the identification of the private vehicle that fled the scene?