The Lagos State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a truck driver involved in a fatal accident that claimed the life of a revenue collector.
The incident occurred on Sunday along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway near New Garage, inbound Lagos.
According to eyewitnesses, the victim was attempting to collect dues from the driver of a containerized truck when tragedy struck.
The truck driver and his conductor reportedly fled the scene immediately after the accident, leaving the victim lifeless.
The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed the devastating incident.
He revealed that the lone truck involved in the accident bore the registration number FST 887 XD.
“The victim was fatally struck while crossing the expressway,” Bakare-Oki explained.
LASTMA personnel were quick to respond to the scene, working to manage traffic and handle the aftermath of the tragedy.
“The remains of the deceased were respectfully handed over to security officers from the Adigboluje Police Division,” Bakare-Oki said.
The victim’s wife rushed to the scene in shock after hearing about the accident.
In an effort to evade responsibility, the truck driver fled the scene, leaving the crushed body of the revenue collector behind.
Bakare-Oki expressed frustration over the driver’s actions, urging transport union leaders to help bring him to justice.
“It is unacceptable for drivers to evade accountability, especially in such grave situations,” he said.
The truck involved in the incident was swiftly removed by LASTMA officials to ease the heavy traffic it caused.
The vehicle has since been handed over to the police for further investigation.
Bakare-Oki expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“Our hearts go out to the bereaved family. This is a deeply regrettable incident,” he said.
He called for improved safety measures on the expressway to prevent such tragedies.
He also emphasized the need for truck drivers to adhere to road safety rules.
The victim’s family is reportedly in deep mourning following the sudden loss.
Witnesses at the scene described the heartbreaking moment the victim’s wife arrived, wailing uncontrollably.
“This is a tragedy that could have been avoided,” one passerby lamented.
The Lagos State Police Command has vowed to apprehend the fleeing driver and his conductor.
Efforts are underway to trace their whereabouts as investigations intensify.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by revenue collectors and the recklessness of some truck drivers.
Bakare-Oki called on transport union leaders to take strict action against erring drivers within their ranks.
“This cannot be allowed to happen again,” he said firmly.