LASTMA Averts Greater Tragedy in Fatal Overnight Collision on Ikorodu Road

LASTMA Averts Greater Tragedy in Fatal Overnight Collision on Ikorodu Road

Lagos, Nigeria – A major road disaster was narrowly mitigated in the early hours of Friday following a fatal collision involving a 40-foot container-laden truck and a Toyota Sienna minivan at Idi-Iroko, inbound Maryland, along Ikorodu Road, Lagos.

The accident, which occurred at around 1:30 a.m., was reportedly caused by a mechanical failure in the truck, specifically a brake malfunction believed to have resulted from excessive speed. The loss of control led to the detachment and toppling of the container onto the minivan with registration number LSR 267 GZ, completely crushing the vehicle beneath its weight.

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) were the first emergency responders at the scene. The agency’s midnight surveillance and rescue team, responding swiftly to distress calls, employed specialized rescue equipment to execute a painstaking extraction operation. Their efforts led to the miraculous rescue of a male occupant trapped in the wreckage, who was later stabilized by personnel from the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS).

Tragically, the driver of the truck fled the scene, likely fearing mob action or legal consequences, under the mistaken belief that all occupants of the crushed vehicle had died.

The crushed Sienna minivan was later towed to the Anthony Police Station, while the truck and its detached container were impounded by LASTMA and moved to its operational headquarters for further investigation and administrative actions.

General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, praised the quick and coordinated response of his team, which helped save a life and restore traffic flow. He reiterated the critical importance of regular vehicle inspections, particularly for articulated trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, and urged operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before hitting the roads—especially in urban areas.

"This deeply distressing incident once again highlights the dangers posed by mechanical negligence, reckless driving, and unchecked speeding," Bakare-Oki said. "We urge truck drivers and fleet managers to adhere strictly to all safety protocols and traffic regulations to prevent similar avoidable tragedies."

He commended the resilience and professionalism of the rescue officers, who worked tirelessly from 1:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. to clear the accident site and restore normal vehicular movement.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and maintaining traffic order across Lagos. The agency called on all road users to exhibit caution and civic responsibility, especially during nighttime hours when accident risks are heightened.