LASTMA Rescues 353 Accident Victims in Five Months, Warns Motorists Over Rainy Season Dangers in Lagos
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has disclosed that its Rescue and Emergency Response Unit rescued 353 victims involved in road traffic accidents and emergency situations across Lagos State between January and May 2026, while urging motorists and other road users to exercise heightened caution during the ongoing rainy season.
According to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the rescued victims comprised 207 adult males, 137 adult females, and nine male children who benefited from the agency’s swift and professional emergency interventions at accident scenes across the state.
Bakare-Oki made the disclosure while reviewing the operational performance of the agency’s rescue team, noting that the figures reflect LASTMA’s commitment to preserving lives and responding promptly to emergencies on Lagos roads.
He observed that the rainy season presents additional risks to motorists, including poor visibility, slippery road surfaces, reduced vehicle traction, flooded roads, mechanical failures, and other hazardous driving conditions that often contribute to road crashes.
“While we take pride in the successful rescue of 353 individuals within the first five months of the year, these incidents equally serve as a poignant reminder of the need for greater caution and responsibility on our roads, particularly during the ongoing rainy season,” he said.
The LASTMA boss stressed that many of the accidents recorded could have been prevented through responsible driving habits, strict adherence to speed limits, proper vehicle maintenance, observance of safe following distances, and avoidance of reckless overtaking.
He advised motorists to ensure that critical vehicle components such as brakes, tyres, windshield wipers, lights, indicators, and steering systems are in good working condition before embarking on journeys, especially during adverse weather conditions.
Bakare-Oki further cautioned against excessive speeding during rainfall, explaining that wet road surfaces increase braking distances and reduce tyre grip, thereby increasing the likelihood of collisions, skidding, and loss of control.
He also warned drivers against attempting to navigate flash-flooded roads without first assessing the depth and condition of the affected areas, noting that such actions frequently result in accidents, vehicle breakdowns, and other avoidable emergencies.
Commending the dedication and professionalism of LASTMA’s Rescue and Emergency Response Team, the General Manager acknowledged the support of other emergency responders, healthcare workers, security agencies, and rescue partners whose collaborative efforts have helped save lives and reduce fatalities on Lagos roads.
Bakare-Oki reaffirmed the agency’s commitment under the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to strengthening its emergency response framework through continuous personnel training, acquisition of modern rescue equipment, strategic deployment of patrol assets, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
He appealed to road users to embrace safety consciousness, patience, discipline, and mutual respect while using the state’s road network, emphasizing that road safety remains a shared responsibility.
“Every life preserved is of immeasurable value. We therefore urge all motorists to make safety their foremost priority during this rainy season. Strict compliance with traffic regulations and responsible road conduct remain the most effective safeguards against avoidable tragedies and needless loss of lives,” he added.
LASTMA assured Lagos residents of its continued readiness to respond promptly to emergencies, assist distressed road users, and ensure the free flow of traffic across the state as rainfall intensifies.
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