The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the death of one person and critical injuries to three others following a devastating road traffic collision involving a truck and a commercial tricycle at Aiyetoro Junction, Epe, Lagos.
The tragic incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, involved a truck laden with yam, bearing registration number AGL 764 XB, and a stationary commercial tricycle marked SMK 127 QR.
According to a statement issued by Taofiq Adebayo, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment, LASTMA, preliminary investigations indicated that the truck, which was travelling from Ijebu-Ode, attempted to make a U-turn inward Eleko when the driver reportedly lost control.
“The loaded truck was said to have attempted a U-turn at Aiyetoro Junction inward Eleko axis when the driver suddenly lost control of the vehicle and violently rammed into a stationary commercial tricycle,” Adebayo stated.
“The impact of the collision was catastrophic, resulting in the unfortunate death of one occupant, while three others sustained grievous injuries.”
Adebayo disclosed that LASTMA operatives stationed in the vicinity for routine traffic management responded swiftly to the distress call.
“Our personnel demonstrated commendable professionalism and rapid response capability. Upon arrival at the crash scene, they immediately commenced traffic control and coordinated rescue efforts to prevent secondary incidents,” he said.
He explained that in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and military personnel, the victims were extricated from the mangled wreckage.
“In concert with other emergency responders, LASTMA operatives successfully extricated three critically injured victims trapped in the wreckage. The synergy among agencies ensured a seamless rescue operation and the swift restoration of normalcy in the area,” Adebayo noted.
The FRSC subsequently conveyed the deceased and the injured victims to the General Hospital, Epe, for medical attention and necessary procedures, while security agencies maintained order at the scene and facilitated the smooth flow of traffic.
Quoting the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, Adebayo said the agency expressed deep sympathy to the family of the deceased.
“The General Manager extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prays for the peaceful repose of the departed soul. He also wishes the injured victims a swift and full recovery,” Adebayo said.
He added that Bakare-Oki urged relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“He has called for a comprehensive inquiry into the underlying cause of the crash, stressing that any individual found culpable must face the full weight of the law in accordance with extant traffic regulations,” Adebayo stated.
The agency reiterated its commitment to sustained traffic enforcement, public safety advocacy and inter-agency collaboration to reduce road fatalities across Lagos State.
