A tragic accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday along Old Ipaja Road near Agbotikuyo, when a 40-foot container-laden Mack truck rammed into a commercial minibus, resulting in the death of the driver and injuries to three passengers.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, confirmed that the truck, bearing registration number MUS 729 XY, reportedly experienced brake failure before colliding with the minibus, locally referred to as a ‘Korope’.
The minibus driver died on the spot, while three passengers were rescued by LASTMA officials and immediately transferred to medical personnel for assessment. Though they appeared physically unhurt, the passengers were taken for precautionary evaluation.
The incident led to traffic disruption, blocking a substantial portion of the roadway and causing a spillover of congestion into adjacent streets including Shofunde and Olufunlayo. LASTMA personnel swiftly implemented traffic diversion strategies to ease the resulting gridlock.
In a related development, the truck driver, who attempted to flee the scene, was apprehended by LASTMA officers and handed over to the Nigeria Police. Officers from both the Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions were on ground to assist in managing the situation.
Emergency responders from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Lagos State Ambulance Services, LASAMBUS, and the Nigeria Police collaborated in the recovery of the deceased, securing the area, and restoring order.
Speaking on the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, extended condolences to the bereaved family and emphasised the pressing need for strict roadworthiness among heavy-duty vehicle operators.
“Truck operators must adhere strictly to safety protocols. It is non-negotiable that every articulated vehicle undergo thorough mechanical inspection, especially the braking systems, before hitting the road. Preventable tragedies like this must end,” Giwa stated.
He also reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to enforcing road safety laws, strengthening emergency response mechanisms, and ensuring full compliance with vehicle inspection standards.
