A fatal road traffic accident occurred early Sunday morning along Old Ipaja Road by Agbotikuyo, en route to Iyana Ipaja, involving a 40-foot containerized Mack truck (registration number MUS 729 XY) and a commercial minibus, commonly known as a ‘Korope.’
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the truck, allegedly due to brake failure, overturned and crushed the minibus. The impact resulted in the immediate death of the minibus driver.
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, said that LASTMA officers on patrol in the area swiftly intervened, rescuing three passengers comprising two females and one male from the wreckage after which the survivors, who sustained no visible injuries, were handed over to medical responders for further evaluation.
Mr. Taofiq said that the accident caused a major obstruction, blocking over 50% of the roadway and triggering a heavy traffic buildup across adjoining streets, including Shofunde and Olufunlayo. LASTMA operatives promptly implemented traffic control and diversion measures to ease congestion and maintain order.
In a failed attempt to flee the scene, the truck driver was apprehended by LASTMA personnel and handed over to officers from the Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions, who were immediately notified of the incident.
Emergency response units from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police Force worked in coordination with LASTMA to secure the site, remove the wreckage, and restore normal traffic flow.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, expressed deep condolences to the family of the deceased and issued a strong warning to truck operators about the importance of road safety.
“Truck operators must strictly adhere to safety protocols,” Giwa stated. “It is non-negotiable that all articulated vehicles undergo comprehensive mechanical checks, especially of their braking systems, before they hit the road. Incidents like this are preventable and should never happen.”
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to rigorous traffic safety enforcement, proactive emergency response, and strict compliance with vehicle roadworthiness regulations.