On September 30, 2024, a series of unfortunate accidents occurred in Lagos State, resulting in injuries to five individuals and the tragic death of two cows. The incidents unfolded on the Ifako Bridge and in the Iyana-Oworo area, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety in the bustling metropolis.
According to a statement from Adebayo Taofiq, the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the first accident took place around 10:30 a.m. on the Ifako Bridge, which leads into the Ogudu area. Involved in this collision was a minibus with the license plate MUS 576 YJ and a commercial Mazda bus. Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver of the Mazda was distracted while eating, leading to a loss of control over the vehicle. This distraction was compounded by a sudden brake failure, resulting in a collision with the minibus.
LASTMA operatives responded promptly, rescuing the five injured individuals—one male and four females—from the wreckage. They were subsequently transported to the Accident and Emergency Centre located along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway for immediate medical attention. Taofiq emphasized the critical need for drivers to maintain focus and adhere to road safety protocols to prevent such incidents.
In a related incident that same day, another crash occurred in Iyana-Oworo when an Acura SUV collided with two cows that were crossing the highway. This unfortunate accident resulted in the death of both animals and caused significant damage to the vehicle involved. Taofiq provided details, noting that the accident happened as the herd of cattle was navigating the expressway, posing an unexpected hazard for drivers.
Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the General Manager of LASTMA, expressed deep sympathy for the victims of these incidents. He urged motorists, particularly those operating commercial vehicles, to prioritize road safety and remain vigilant while driving to avoid dangerous practices that can lead to accidents.
This series of crashes is a stark reminder of the importance of road safety in Lagos. A recent report highlighted another fatal accident on September 18, where a minibus collided with a stationary truck in the CMS area, resulting in the death of the truck driver. Such incidents raise critical questions about driver awareness and the need for improved safety measures on the road.
As the city continues to grapple with traffic-related challenges, authorities are calling for increased public awareness and adherence to safety regulations to prevent further tragedies.
For ongoing updates and safety tips, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and traffic management authoritie
