The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) announces with profound grief a devastating and fatal road traffic incident that occurred earlier today along Meran Road, inward Iyana Ekoro axis of Lagos, resulting in the untimely death of a female operative of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) who was conscientiously engaged in her lawful environmental sanitation duties.
Preliminary security findings indicate that the fatal occurrence involved a blue Ford commercial bus laden with bottled / can beverages (BDG 495 YH), which was recklessly and unlawfully reversing on the expressway.
During this grossly negligent manoeuvre, the vehicle forcefully rammed into the unsuspecting LAWMA sweeper who was carrying out routine roadside cleaning. The severe impact, particularly to the head region, proved instantly fatal.
LASTMA Officers on active traffic surveillance duties around the Meiran axis swiftly mobilised to the scene upon receipt of the distress report. It was discovered that the driver had absconded from the crash site in a desperate attempt to evade accountability. Demonstrating exceptional alertness and professionalism, the officers immediately pursued the fleeing vehicle, successfully apprehended the driver and escorted him and his vehicle back to the scene of the incident.
The apprehended driver and the implicated vehicle were subsequently handed over to security men from the Meiran Police Division for comprehensive investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws. The timely intervention of security personnel averted a potential breach of public peace, as the suspect was on the verge of being subjected to mob action by enraged members of the public.
The remains of the deceased were respectfully evacuated from the scene by LAWMA officials using an official LAWMA vehicle for further necessary procedures.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep anguish over the tragic and avoidable loss of an innocent life, describing the occurrence as both distressing and preventable.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, colleagues and loved ones of the fallen LAWMA operative, fervently praying that Almighty God grants them the fortitude and divine strength required to endure the irreplaceable loss.
Bakare-Oki unequivocally condemned the act of reversing on an expressway, stressing that it constitutes a serious traffic offence and a blatant contravention of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
He cautioned motorists against engaging in reckless, unlawful driving practices which continually result in needless fatalities and public sorrow.
While reaffirming LASTMA’s unwavering resolve to uphold traffic order, safety enforcement and the protection of lives on Lagos roads, the General Manager commended the vigilance, courage and swift response of LASTMA Officers involved in the incident, particularly for ensuring the suspect’s apprehension and preventing his escape from justice.
