A fatal road traffic crash involving multiple articulated vehicles occurred on Thursday at Otedola Bridge inward Secretariat along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, causing severe traffic disruption and prompting a swift, multi-agency emergency response.
The primary incident involved a violent collision between two heavy-duty trailers, one conveying sand and the other loaded with granite. The crash was reportedly caused by a reckless struggle for the right of way between the drivers.
As a result of the impact, the driver of the sand-laden trailer became trapped in the wreckage and sustained fatal injuries. Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Rescue Team, who were on routine surveillance, responded promptly to the scene and successfully extricated the victim.
The injured driver was immediately handed over to officials of the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) and transported to the General Hospital, Ikeja, where he was confirmed dead. The driver of the second trailer was rescued alive and reportedly escaped unhurt.
In a related incident, another trailer fully loaded with flour overturned about 50 metres from the main crash site, further worsening traffic congestion along the already affected corridor.
To maintain public safety and prevent a breakdown of law and order, security operatives from the Alausa Police Division were deployed to the scene to provide security coverage, manage crowd control and support ongoing rescue and recovery operations.
The combined incidents blocked nearly 80 per cent of the carriageway, forcing traffic authorities to implement extensive diversions. Motorists travelling into Lagos from the Mowe, Kara Bridge and Redemption Camp axis were redirected through the Ojodu–Olole route, linking Agidingbi, Coca-Cola, Secretariat and 7-Up, to access Gbagada or Ojota.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, described the crashes as “deeply regrettable and largely preventable.”
“These unfortunate incidents were caused by impatience, indiscipline and the refusal of some drivers to yield the right of way,” Giwa said. “Strict compliance with traffic regulations and mutual courtesy among motorists are essential to preventing needless loss of lives on our roads.”
He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased driver and prayed for strength to bear the loss. The special adviser also commended LASTMA operatives, LASAMBUS personnel and security agencies for their swift, coordinated and professional handling of the emergency.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to road safety and urged all motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles, to exercise restraint, professionalism and strict adherence to traffic laws to protect lives and property across the state.
