A tricycle operator was killed and two passengers injured on Wednesday in a multiple-vehicle crash at Ekoro Junction inward Ile-Iwe, Lagos State.
The tragic incident was confirmed in a statement by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
According to Adebayo, the collision involved a six-tyre trailer, a Honda Pilot, a Toyota Camry, and an unregistered tricycle. Preliminary investigations revealed that the accident occurred after the trailer, fully loaded with goods, suffered a mechanical brake failure, causing the driver to lose control.
“The trailer, in its uncontrollable descent, crushed the tricycle beyond recognition before colliding with a Honda Pilot and eventually vaulting over the median to smash into a Toyota Camry and adjacent property on the opposing lane,” Adebayo said.
He added that LASTMA operatives arrived swiftly at the scene, rescuing two trapped victims and confirming the immediate death of the tricycle operator.
“Upon securing the area, LASTMA personnel promptly notified the police and the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SHEMU). The deceased and the injured were later conveyed to the General Hospital, Ile-Epo, for medical attention and proper documentation,” he said.
LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the incident as “tragic and wholly preventable,” stressing that regular vehicle maintenance and strict adherence to speed limits remain critical to road safety.
“Such accidents can be avoided through compliance with safety regulations, proper maintenance of braking systems, and responsible driving,” Bakare-Oki stated, extending condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the recovery of the injured victims.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safer roads and strict enforcement of traffic regulations, while urging drivers, especially those operating articulated and heavy-duty vehicles, to exercise caution and carry out frequent mechanical inspections.
“Reckless driving and mechanical negligence remain the leading causes of preventable road tragedies in Lagos State,” Bakare-Oki added.
