One dead, 17 injured in multi-vehicle collision in Lagos

One dead, 17 injured in multi-vehicle collision in Lagos

A fatal multi-vehicle accident in the early hours of Sunday (12:30 AM) on the Odo Iya-Alaro Bridge along Ikorodu Road, Lagos has tragically claimed one life and left seventeen others severely injured.

This was revealed in a press statement on Sunday by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofiq.

Taofiq said that preliminary investigations indicated that the driver of a Mack truck, with registration number KWL 923 XB and fully laden with diesel, lost control of the vehicle while speeding towards Ojota.

He added, “In a desperate attempt to apply faulty brakes, the truck rammed into seven other vehicles (Buses and cars) from behind, causing widespread damage.

“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Rescue Team, who diligently respond to all overnight incidents on the State’s roads, was the first to arrive at the scene.

“They promptly called in additional emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire Service, LASAMBUS, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit (LRU) and Policemen from Anthony Police Station.”

However, he said, a passenger in one of the affected buses suffered fatal head injuries and died instantly.

“LASAMBUS personnel administered urgent medical care to the 17 injured individuals, who were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

The LASTMA Rescue Team swiftly cleared the wreckage, which included the loaded truck, to restore the flow of traffic and avert further gridlock,” he added.

Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, was said to have extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured victims a swift recovery.

“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic accident. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of all road users in Lagos State,” the statement quoted Bakare-Oki.

This tragic event underscores the critical importance of road safety and serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to exercise vigilance and comply with traffic regulations.