LASTMA Confirms Four Dead, Several Injured in Lekki–Epe Expressway Crash; Swift Response Restores Traffic Flow
By Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a tragic road accident that occurred over the weekend along the Lekki–Epe Expressway, opposite Beechwood in Shapati inward Ajah, resulting in the death of four passengers and leaving four others with severe injuries.
According to preliminary reports, the fatal collision involved a HOWO articulated truck and a fully loaded Suzuki commercial mini bus, popularly known as “Korope.” Investigations indicate that the truck driver lost control while in motion, causing the vehicle to veer across the carriageway and crash into the oncoming commercial bus conveying passengers along the busy corridor.
In his statement to ROTAMediaNews, Adebayo Taofiq, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, the devastating impact led to the immediate death of four male passengers, while four other occupants, two males and two females sustained serious fracture injuries after becoming trapped in the wreckage of the bus.
LASTMA officials promptly mobilised to the accident scene and, in collaboration with other emergency responders and passersby, successfully extricated the trapped victims from the crushed vehicle. The injured passengers were swiftly transported to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment, while the remains of the deceased were evacuated to the morgue with the assistance of an emergency ambulance from the Federal Road Safety Corps.
Security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Elemoro Police Division maintained order at the scene and ensured the safety of rescue teams and road users throughout the emergency operation. Authorities have since assured that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted to determine the remote cause of the crash.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the truck driver and his motorboy fled the scene shortly after the incident.
Reacting to the tragedy, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured victims currently receiving treatment.
Bakare-Oki commended the coordinated efforts of emergency responders whose prompt intervention aided the successful rescue operation. He further urged motorists, particularly drivers of articulated vehicles, to exercise caution, strictly comply with traffic regulations, and adopt responsible driving practices to prevent avoidable road accidents across Lagos State.
