Gas tanker leak triggers major traffic diversions along Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass in Kaduna

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

Motorists and commuters are facing heavy traffic delays across Kaduna South following a gas tanker leak that forced authorities to completely cordon off a section of the busy Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass near Unguwan Mu’azu.
The incident, involving a compressed gas tanker, prompted a joint emergency response from the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA) and the Kaduna State Fire and Public Safety Agency following a distress call on Sunday.
Briefing journalists on Monday, the Executive Secretary of KADSEMA, Usman Mazadu, confirmed that emergency crews swiftly secured the perimeter and initiated continuous cooling operations to stabilize the vessel and eliminate the risk of an explosion.
“The quick response ensured no casualties or injuries, and the tanker driver escaped unharmed.
“ Assessment shows the leak was contained without damage to nearby properties,” Mazadu stated.
While initial evaluations confirm no structural damage or loss of life, KADSEMA stated that monitoring will remain ongoing until the tanker is fully stabilized and declared safe.
To protect road users and allow emergency teams unhindered access, traffic has been rerouted away from the Unguwan Mu’azu axis of the bypass.
The sudden influx of long-distance heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles onto secondary routes has led to gridlock along Ahmadu Bello Way and Kachia Road, resulting in severe transit delays for goods and passengers across the city.
While expressed relief was voiced over the avoidance of a catastrophic explosion, local residents and commercial drivers urged state authorities to tighten oversight on the transport of hazardous materials through high-density urban areas.
Highlighted economic losses and extreme delays caused by sudden diversions, calling for better haulage route management.
Concerned residents expressed fears over frequent hazardous transport through residential corridors, demanding mandatory roadworthiness checks and specialized safety training for gas haulage drivers.
However, KADSEMA urged all pedestrians, private motorists, and commercial drivers to strictly avoid the Nnamdi Azikiwe By-Pass until operations are officially concluded.
Further updates regarding the reopening of the bypass will be released as safety clearances are issued by emergency personnel.