A tragic accident at the Idi-Iroko inward Ogolonto section of Ikorodu Road on Tuesday morning claimed one life and left two others critically injured, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has confirmed.
The collision, involving a fully loaded commercial Mazda bus and a laden truck, once again highlights the dangers of reckless driving on Lagos’s busiest highways.
Confirming the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the accident occurred when the bus driver attempted to force his way into the main carriageway from the Agric axis, colliding with the articulated truck.
His remarks were contained in a statement signed by Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment.
According to eyewitness accounts, the force of the collision sent shockwaves through the packed commuter bus.
One passenger, who had been seated precariously at the doorway—a common but dangerous practice among commuters—was ejected on impact and tragically crushed under the rear tires of the truck. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency responders worked swiftly to rescue two other passengers, a male and female, who sustained severe injuries.
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The Lagos State Ambulance Service transported them to Ikorodu General Hospital for urgent treatment.
Police officers from the Owutu Division provided security cover as LASTMA personnel coordinated rescue and recovery operations.
The remains of the deceased were later released to the family by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, according to Bakare-Oki. “Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the bereaved family at this painful time,” he said.
The accident caused significant traffic gridlock along the already congested Ikorodu corridor, which serves as a major gateway between Ikorodu and mainland Lagos.
To restore traffic flow, LASTMA officials quickly evacuated the mangled Mazda bus and the truck involved in the crash.
Bakare-Oki used the opportunity to remind motorists of the grave risks posed by reckless driving and disregard for traffic rules. “We urge all road users to exercise caution, restraint, and a sense of civic duty, particularly on heavily trafficked routes like Ikorodu Road,” he said.
The Ikorodu axis has witnessed repeated cases of fatal crashes in recent years, often linked to speeding, overloading, and the unsafe practice of allowing passengers to sit at bus doorways.
Transportation experts say that the recurring tragedies point to the urgent need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, coupled with continuous public awareness campaigns.
Residents of the area also expressed concern, noting that poor driving culture and high vehicular volume make the corridor especially dangerous.
“It is not the first time we are hearing about accidents here. Drivers are always in a rush, and passengers sometimes encourage it,” said a trader who operates near the scene.
NAN
