CITIZENS COMPASS–The passenger of an ill-fated commercial bus has died untimely while 17 others were critically injured in a multiple accidents on the Odo Iya-Alaro Bridge, near Ojota, Lagos State.
The multiple accidents on the Odo Iya-Alaro Bridge occurred in the early hours of Sunday.
The accidents were attributed to the reckless driving of a Mack truck, with number plate, KWL 923 XB which lost control and rammed into seven other vehicles including buses and cars on the Odo-Iya-Alaro Bridge.
The truck was laden with diesel when it rammed into the vehicles from the rear on the Odo-Iya-Alaro Bridge.
This occurred inward Ojota when the truck, in a desperate attempt to apply faulty brakes, rammed into seven other vehicles.
Spokesperson, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofik confirmed the accidents to Citizens Compass.
Narrating how it happened on the Odo-Iya-Alaro Bridge, hee said, “In the early hours of today (12:30 AM), a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision occurred on the Odo Iya-Alaro Bridge, tragically claiming one life and severely injuring 17 others.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of a Mack truck, with registration number KWL 923 XB and fully laden with diesel, lost control of the vehicle while speeding towards Ojota. In a desperate attempt to apply faulty brakes, the truck rammed into seven other vehicles (Buses and cars) from behind, causing widespread damage.
“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Rescue Team, who diligently respond to all overnight incidents on the State’s roads, was the first to arrive at the scene. They promptly called in additional emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire Service, LASAMBUS, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit (LRU) and Police men from Anthony Police Station.
“Regrettably, a passenger in one of the affected buses suffered fatal head injuries and died instantly. LASAMBUS personnel administered urgent medical care to the 17 injured individuals, who were subsequently transported to nearby hospitals for further treatment.
“The LASTMA Rescue Team swiftly cleared the wreckage, which included the loaded truck, to restore the flow of traffic and avert further gridlock.
“Expressing his deep sorrow, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wished the injured victims a swift recovery.
“”Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic accident. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of all road users in Lagos State,” he stated.
“This tragic accident underscores the critical importance of road safety and serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to exercise vigilance and comply with traffic regulations.”
