…….LASTMA Calls for Urgent Road Safety Compliance.
Emmanuel Clement
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has expressed deep concern following another tragic road traffic incident that claimed the life of a dispatch rider within 24 hours at Otedola Bridge inward Secretariat along the Ogudu Toll Gate corridor.
In a release signed by the Director Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Department of LASTMA,Adebayo Taofiq stated that the fatal crash involved a heavy-duty Volvo truck and a dispatch rider.
The devastating impact resulted in the immediate death of the rider at the scene, further heightening concerns about the vulnerability of dispatch riders on major highways across Lagos State.
LASTMA operatives on routine patrol around Otedola Bridge swiftly responded to the accident scene. Upon arrival, officials promptly secured and cordoned off the area to prevent secondary incidents, particularly due to the heavy vehicular movement along the busy corridor.
The remains of the deceased dispatch rider were respectfully handed over to officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), who were present at the scene to support traffic management operations.
Security personnel from Alausa Police Station also provided reinforcement to maintain order throughout the rescue and evacuation process.
Subsequently, the articulated truck and the dispatch motorcycle were quickly removed by a tow truck, facilitating the restoration of normal traffic flow along the corridor.
Read Also:Tragedy In Alapere As Tanker Kills Dispatch Rider, LASTMA Prevents Mob Attack.
Despite the prompt intervention by emergency responders, the incident caused considerable traffic congestion, with backlog stretching towards the Berger axis.
LASTMA officials, however, worked diligently to mitigate the gridlock and restore seamless vehicular movement within the shortest possible time.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed profound condolences to the bereaved family and associates of the deceased, acknowledging the magnitude of the loss and the distressing circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
He further emphasized the urgent need for heightened vigilance, strict compliance with traffic regulations, and an enhanced culture of safety among all categories of road users, particularly operators of articulated vehicles and dispatch riders.
According to him, “LASTMA remains resolute in its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders in intensifying advocacy initiatives aimed at reducing road fatalities and fostering a sustainable culture of road safety across Lagos State.”