………..As LASTMA Condemns Reckless Driving
Emmanuel lkpeama
A tragic accident occurred on the Badagry Expressway in Lagos State, resulting in the death of a tricycle operator.
Investigator news reports that the incident involved a collision between the tricycle with registration number MUS 716 QM and a Mercedes-Benz SUV with the customized license plate “OSUNFNKE.” driven in the wrong direction.
Preliminary intelligence gathered from the scene indicates that the SUV operator was driving in contravention of established traffic protocols—willfully navigating against the legally designated flow of traffic, colloquially known as “One-Way”—from Ile-Epo towards Oko-Afo.
This gross infraction culminated in a devastating head-on collision with the oncoming tricycle.The impact was fatal as the tricycle operator sustained multiple traumatic injuries, including a critical knee dislocation, and was confirmed dead at the scene.
In a shocking act of cowardice and moral negligence, the SUV driver fled the scene immediately, abandoning both his vehicle and the lifeless body of his victim.
Investigator news gathered that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) swiftly responded to the scene, securing the area and escalating the matter to the Morogbo division of the Nigeria Police Force which promptly took control of the area, while personnel from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), also present conveyed the deceased’s remains to the mortuary at the General Hospital in Badagry for formal processing.
To restore normalcy and ease traffic gridlock, the extensively damaged tricycle and the SUV were towed from the roadway by LASTMA personnel and duly transferred to the custody of the Nigeria Police for further forensic investigation and possible criminal prosecution.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, condemned the incident, citing a blatant disregard for traffic laws. He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to promoting road safety and enforcing traffic regulations
“This lamentable loss of life is an unfortunate testament to the deadly ramifications of impunity on our roads,” Mr. Bakare-Oki stated.
“It is profoundly disheartening that, despite persistent enlightenment campaigns, extensive road safety sensitization, and continuous enforcement initiatives, some individuals still choose to operate with reckless abandon and utter disregard for lawful conduct.”he said
He reaffirmed LASTMA’s resolute mandate to promote road safety through a strategic blend of proactive traffic management, civic responsibility education, and zero tolerance for infractions.
“This tragedy could have been averted if the erring driver had complied with directional signage and traffic regulations. We earnestly implore all motorists to conduct themselves responsibly, as every life lost on our roads is one too many,” he added.
Bakare-Oki urged motorists to conduct themselves responsibly, emphasizing that every life lost on the roads is preventable.
LASTMA extends condolences to the family of the deceased and advises all road users to prioritize safety and adhere to traffic laws.
