LASTMA Rescues LAWMA Worker Hit by Speeding Container Truck Near Eko Bridge, Driver on the Run

LASTMA Rescues LAWMA Worker Hit by Speeding Container Truck Near Eko Bridge, Driver on the Run

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a serious road traffic accident along the Offin Canal axis inward Eko Bridge, where a recklessly speeding containerised truck struck and critically injured a Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) operative during early morning operations.

A male LAWMA operative, identified as Mr. Baba Ibeji, was reportedly knocked down at Oja Junction while carrying out lawful refuse evacuation duties when a heavily loaded articulated truck lost control and veered off course.

Preliminary investigations by LASTMA revealed that the truck, which was travelling at an excessive speed, suffered an alleged brake failure while descending the CMS Bridge toward Eko Bridge. The mechanical failure led to a loss of control, causing the vehicle to violently hit the LAWMA worker before crashing into a Toyota Camry with registration number FST 417 FS.

LASTMA officers on routine traffic monitoring duties in the area swiftly responded to the emergency, displaying what the agency described as exceptional bravery and professionalism. The officers successfully rescued the injured LAWMA operative from beneath the truck, preventing what could have resulted in a fatal outcome.

The victim was immediately taken to Fuja Hospital but was reportedly denied admission due to the critical nature of his injuries. He was subsequently transferred to the General Hospital for urgent and specialist medical attention.

Meanwhile, the truck driver reportedly fled the scene immediately after the crash. However, LASTMA operatives apprehended the truck assistant, popularly known as the motor boy, who was handed over to security personnel led by the Divisional Traffic Officer (DTO) of the Ebute-Ero Police Division, Lagos Island, for further investigation.

Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, condemned the reckless driving that led to the accident and ordered a thorough investigation by relevant security agencies, with a view to prosecuting those found culpable in line with existing laws.

Hon. Giwa also commended LASTMA officers and other emergency responders for their swift and courageous intervention, noting that their prompt action prevented a tragic loss of life. He expressed sympathy to the family of the injured LAWMA operative and wished him a speedy and full recovery.

Reiterating the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance policy on reckless driving, particularly by operators of articulated and heavy-duty vehicles, LASTMA urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, obey speed limits and exercise caution at all times, warning that negligence on the road often leads to irreversible consequences.

— Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA