- As another truck Rams into BRT corridor at Ketu, driver flees
By Demi Adeniyi
A multi-vehicle accident, on the Odo Iya-Alaro Bridge, on Sunday claimed one life, and left 17 others severely injured.
Investigations showed that the driver of a Mack truck, with registration number KWL 923 XB, that was fully laden with diesel, lost control of the vehicle enroute Ojota. In a desperate attempt to apply the faulty brakes, the truck rammed into seven other vehicles (buses and cars) from behind, causing widespread damage.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Rescue Team was the first to arrive at the scene. They promptly called in additional emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire Service, LASAMBUS, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Lagos Rescue Unit (LRU) and Policemen from Anthony Police Station.
Regrettably, a passenger in one of the affected buses died instantly, while LASAMBUS personnel administered urgent first aid care to 17 injured victims, who were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
The LASTMA Rescue Team swiftly cleared the wreckage, to restore the flow of traffic.
Expressing his deep sorrow, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured victims a swift recovery.
“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic accident. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of all road users in Lagos State,” he stated.
In a related development, a Dangote truck also on Sunday afternoon collided with the BRT corridor at the Demurin junction at Ketu, heading towards Mile 12.
The truck (GML 730 XX) loaded with cements leaves none injured.
The accident occurred due to brake failure, as the truck, moving at high speed, veered into the BRT lane while the driver ran away with the thought that he had rammed on commuters.
No casualties were recorded as the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) rescue team swiftly arrived at the scene to manage the situation with LRU team, Officers from the Ketu Police Station provided security support during the rescue operations.The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, urged truck drivers to adhere to the speed limits clearly indicated on road signs provided by the Lagos State Government.