LASTMA Warns Lagos Residents Against Consuming Spilled Groundnut Oil After Tanker Accident

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has warned residents and traders against scooping, selling or consuming spilled groundnut oil following a tanker accident around the Abiola Garden/Ketu-Ojota Bridge area, inward the Toll Gate in Lagos, on Thursday morning.

The accident involved a 33,000-litre tanker conveying groundnut oil, which reportedly overturned in the area, leaving its contents spilled onto the road and raising concerns over the possible health risks associated with the consumption of contaminated oil.

LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, issued the warning, cautioning members of the public against collecting the spilled product from road surfaces, drainage channels and other contaminated areas.

Bakare-Oki explained that groundnut oil exposed to such environments could become contaminated by petroleum residues, dirt, heavy metals and harmful substances from drainage effluents, making it unsafe for human consumption.

He stressed that scooping the spilled oil for domestic use or commercial resale could expose unsuspecting consumers to serious health hazards.

The LASTMA boss urged residents, traders and passers-by to resist the temptation to collect the oil, regardless of its apparent value, warning that the potential health consequences far outweighed any immediate financial benefit.

He also advised members of the public to avoid contact with the spilled substance and to allow the relevant emergency and environmental authorities to manage the scene and ensure appropriate safety measures.

The incident highlights the dangers associated with collecting food products involved in road accidents, particularly when they have been exposed to contaminated surfaces and drainage systems.

LASTMA reiterated the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with emergency responders, urging residents to prioritise their health and safety over the recovery of spilled goods.

Members of the public were advised to report safety concerns to the appropriate authorities rather than attempt to recover or distribute the contaminated product.