A major tragedy was narrowly averted in Lagos on Saturday after officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) rescued an injured man from a six-tyre truck that plunged off the Oshodi Bridge inward Mile 2.
The truck, a fully loaded vehicle carrying toner printing materials, reportedly suffered a brake failure while descending the Oshodi-Oke Bridge. The accident occurred in the morning and caused panic among commuters and traders around the busy area.
According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle veered off course before falling into a ditch close to the terminal under the bridge. The impact of the crash left one person seriously injured, while the driver was apprehended shortly after the incident.
Confirming the incident, the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, said the quick response of the agency’s operatives prevented what could have been a large-scale disaster.
“Our officers arrived at the scene within minutes, rescued the injured victim, and swiftly restored traffic flow in the area,” Taofiq said.
He explained that the injured man was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, while the truck driver was handed over to the police at Makinde Police Station, Oshodi, for further investigation.
Taofiq added that the scene was quickly secured to prevent secondary accidents and that the wreckage was cleared to ensure the smooth movement of vehicles along the busy corridor.
“Our rescue team acted fast to avoid more casualties and traffic buildup. The situation was brought under control in record time,” he added.
Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki, praised his officers for their prompt intervention and professionalism. He described the rescue as another demonstration of the agency’s commitment to saving lives and keeping Lagos roads safe.
“Our officers continue to demonstrate courage and readiness in emergency situations. Their swift action prevented what could have been a major loss of lives,” Oki said.
Oki also used the opportunity to warn motorists, especially truck and commercial vehicle drivers, to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before setting out on any journey. He urged them to carry out regular maintenance and adhere to safety standards, particularly during the ember months, when road crashes are more frequent.
“We are entering a period when road accidents tend to increase because of higher vehicle movement. Truck drivers must check their brakes and tyres regularly and avoid reckless driving,” he advised.
The LASTMA boss revealed that the agency has strengthened its 24-hour emergency response operations across Lagos State. He said recovery trucks and response teams have been stationed at major highways and traffic-prone locations to ensure rapid intervention whenever accidents occur.
“We have intensified our round-the-clock traffic management and rescue operations to keep Lagos roads safe before, during, and after the festive season,” he said.
Oki further assured Lagos residents that LASTMA officers remain on high alert to manage emergencies, clear obstructions, and prevent loss of lives on the road.
“Our priority is the safety of all road users. We will continue to respond promptly to emergencies and ensure that Lagos roads remain safe and orderly,” he added.
Incidents of brake failure and truck crashes have become a recurring problem in Lagos, especially on busy highways like Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, Ikorodu Road, and Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Many of these accidents are linked to poor vehicle maintenance and overloading.
The Lagos State Government has repeatedly urged drivers to maintain their vehicles and obey traffic regulations, warning that offenders would face strict penalties.
Saturday’s rescue by LASTMA once again highlighted the importance of rapid response units in reducing casualties and restoring order during emergencies in the state.
As of press time, traffic around the Oshodi axis had been fully cleared, and the injured victim was reported to be receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
