Traffic diverted on Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass due to gas tanker leak in Kaduna South

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass near Unguwan Mu’azu after traffic was rerouted to alternative routes following a compressed gas tanker leak in Kaduna South.

The Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency, Usman Mazadu, confirmed the development on Monday while briefing the media in Kaduna.

Mazadu said the agency responded jointly with the Kaduna State Fire and Public Safety Agency after receiving a distress call on Sunday.

He explained that emergency responders immediately secured the scene while cooling operations continued to stabilize the tanker and prevent escalation.

According to him, the quick response ensured no casualties or injuries, and the tanker driver escaped unharmed.

Mazadu stated that traffic has been diverted to alternative routes to facilitate emergency operations and protect road users around the incident area.

As of the time of this report, major alternative routes, including Ahmadu Bello Way and Kachia Road, are flooded with heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles diverted from the bypass.

He advised residents, motorists, and pedestrians to stay away from the Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass near Unguwan Mu’azu until emergency officials declare the area safe.

The KADSEMA boss commended residents for their cooperation since the incident and urged continued compliance with emergency directives until operations are concluded.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said security personnel and emergency officials cordoned off the area shortly after the leak was reported, preventing commuters from accessing the busy bypass.

Some residents told this reporter they are relieved that the incident did not cause an explosion but called on authorities to strengthen safety checks on trucks transporting hazardous materials.

“We are grateful that no lives were lost, but the government should ensure regular inspection of these tankers to prevent future incidents,” said Mallam Ibrahim Suleiman, a diverted commercial driver.

Another resident, Mrs. Aisha Musa of Unguwan Mu’azu, urged authorities to enforce stricter regulations on the movement of gas tankers within densely populated areas.

“These tankers pass through our communities every day. We need assurance they are roadworthy and that drivers are properly trained,” she said.

Commercial drivers on Ahmadu Bello Way and Kachia Road also lamented the sudden increase in traffic, saying the diversion caused gridlock and delays in moving goods and passengers.

Mazadu assured that KADSEMA, in partnership with other agencies, will continue public awareness on safety around hazardous materials and emergency preparedness.

He added that an initial assessment shows the leak was contained without damage to nearby properties, and monitoring continues to ensure full stabilization of the tanker.

Emergency officials said updates on the road’s status will be shared once it is safe to return to normal traffic flow on the Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass.