On the evening of October 3, 2024, a potentially tragic accident unfolded along the Car Park – C axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, but fortunately, four individuals emerged unscathed. This incident, which involved a truck, has raised important questions about road safety and vehicle maintenance.
According to reports from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency, the accident was precipitated by a tyre burst while a DAF truck was in motion. Babatunde Akinbiyi, the agency’s spokesperson, provided detailed insights into the events that transpired. Witnesses indicated that the truck, bearing registration number FKA 195 XA, lost control and subsequently overturned, spilling its cargo onto a Hyundai car traveling in the same direction.
Akinbiyi elaborated on the sequence of events, stating, “The driver of the loaded DAF truck experienced a tyre burst, which caused him to lose control. As a result, the truck overturned, and its contents were scattered onto the Hyundai car.” Remarkably, despite the severity of the situation, there were no injuries or fatalities reported.
The aftermath of the accident resulted in significant traffic congestion, which was effectively managed by emergency responders. The vehicles involved in the crash, the DAF truck and a Hyundai car with the registration number AAA 599 CV, were subsequently towed away by the Redeemed Police Division. Akinbiyi noted that while traffic was heavily impacted initially, it was eventually cleared, allowing for the resumption of normal vehicular movement.
In light of this incident, Akinbiyi urged motorists to prioritize vehicle maintenance before embarking on journeys. He emphasized, “We appeal to motorists to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before traveling on the highway. Preventive measures can help avert incidents like this.” The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency remains dedicated to promoting road safety and minimizing accidents across the state.
This incident is part of a larger context, as road safety continues to be a pressing concern in Nigeria. Just days prior, another serious accident was reported in Lagos, where an unidentified driver narrowly escaped death when a 40-foot container fell in the Mile 2 area. According to Adebayo Taofiq, spokesperson for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, this incident occurred around 5 PM on a Thursday. While the driver of a black Toyota Jeep with the registration number AAA 144 GU was lucky to escape unharmed, the driver of the container truck sustained severe injuries.
These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the critical role that vehicle maintenance plays in preventing accidents. As the authorities continue to address these challenges, the cooperation of motorists is essential in fostering a safer driving environment for all.
Johnson Idowu, the author of this report, is an experienced journalist with over four years of expertise covering various sectors, including education, politics, and metro news. His commitment to delivering accurate and timely information highlights the need for public awareness regarding road safety practices.
