A devastating multi-vehicle collision occurred on Thursday along the Sabo-Itokin Expressway in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State, leaving at least seven people injured. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident, attributing it to reckless driving.
Reckless Driving Sparks Collision
According to LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq, the crash happened when a Lexus Jeep, with registration number KSF 879 JR, engaged in a dangerous overtaking maneuver. The unidentified driver reportedly lost control, violently ramming into two fully loaded commercial buses.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver of the Lexus attempted to overtake unlawfully but, upon encountering an oncoming heavy truck, made a desperate attempt to re-enter his lane. This resulted in a catastrophic impact on the two buses, leaving seven passengers severely injured. Shockingly, the driver of the Lexus fled the scene immediately after the accident.
Swift Emergency Response
Emergency responders, including LASTMA personnel and officers from the Area N Police Division, quickly arrived at the scene to manage traffic disruptions and secure the accident site.
“In an expeditious response, LASTMA officials, in collaboration with security operatives, secured the scene, facilitated the evacuation of wrecked vehicles, and restored normalcy to traffic flow,” Taofiq stated.
All injured victims were promptly transported to the General Hospital in Ikorodu by the Lagos State Ambulance Services for immediate medical attention.
LASTMA Urges Caution on Highways
Reacting to the accident, LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki condemned the reckless driving habits of motorists and emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.
“The government has strategically positioned road signs to guide motorists and ensure safety on our highways. Drivers must exercise utmost caution and confirm absolute clearance before overtaking. Road recklessness can have devastating consequences,” he warned.
He also expressed deep sympathy for the injured victims and urged drivers to prioritize safety to prevent such incidents in the future.
Excessive Speeding Identified as Cause
Further analysis by LASTMA officials suggests that excessive speeding played a significant role in the accident. While the Lexus Jeep initiated the collision, reports indicate that a commercial bus driver’s high speed contributed to the severity of the crash.
This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations in Lagos State.
