In a disturbing repeat of Monday’s tragedy, a dispatch rider was killed on Tuesday after being struck by a heavy-duty truck along the Otedola Bridge axis.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) disclosed that the fatal crash occurred inward Secretariat along the Ogudu Toll Gate corridor, involving a heavy-duty Volvo truck and a dispatch motorcycle.
According to the agency, the impact of the collision was devastating, resulting in the instant death of the rider at the scene, further underscoring the growing vulnerability of dispatch riders operating on major highways across the state.
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment of LASTMA, Taofiq Adebayo, who confirmed the incident, described it as “a deeply distressing occurrence and an unfortunate reminder of the dangers inherent on our roads.”
He said, “This tragic incident, coming less than 24 hours after a similar fatality in Ketu, is both painful and alarming. It reinforces the urgent need for all road users, particularly operators of articulated vehicles and dispatch riders, to exercise heightened caution and responsibility.”
Adebayo noted that LASTMA operatives on routine patrol in the area responded swiftly to the emergency, promptly securing and cordoning off the accident scene to prevent secondary crashes, especially given the high vehicular density along the corridor.
“Our officers acted with commendable speed and professionalism. They immediately isolated the scene to avert further incidents and ensured that traffic flow was systematically managed despite the difficult circumstances,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the remains of the deceased were respectfully handed over to officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), who were on ground to support traffic management and emergency response operations.
Security personnel from the Alausa Police Station were also deployed to maintain order and provide reinforcement throughout the rescue and evacuation process.
“The synergy between LASTMA, FRSC, and the Nigeria Police once again proved critical in managing the situation effectively. Such inter-agency collaboration remains vital in responding to emergencies of this nature,” Adebayo added.
Following the evacuation, the affected vehicles, the articulated truck and the dispatch motorcycle, were promptly towed off the road, allowing for the gradual restoration of normal traffic flow along the busy axis.
Despite the swift intervention, the incident triggered heavy traffic congestion, with a backlog stretching towards the Berger axis, as commuters grappled with delays during peak hours.
Adebayo, however, assured that LASTMA officials worked diligently to ease the gridlock. “Our personnel remained on ground until vehicular movement was fully stabilised. We are committed to ensuring minimal disruption even in the face of tragic incidents,” he said.
While expressing profound condolences to the family and associates of the deceased, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, emphasised the need for a stronger culture of safety and compliance with traffic regulations among all categories of road users.
“We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family. No loss of life on our roads is acceptable. This unfortunate incident must serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders,” Bakare – Oki stated.
He reiterated LASTMA’s commitment to intensifying public enlightenment campaigns and enforcement strategies aimed at reducing road fatalities across Lagos State.
“LASTMA remains resolute in collaborating with relevant stakeholders to deepen advocacy on road safety. We will continue to promote responsible driving habits and stricter adherence to traffic laws in order to safeguard lives and property,” He affirmed.
