- Safiu Kehinde
Barely 24 hours after an auto crash along Third Mainland Bridge claimed one life while leaving four others injured, another fatality has, on Tuesday, being reported after a fully loaded truck crushed a pedestrian to death in Lagos.
The incident, which was confirmed in a statement issued by Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and involving a Howo truck, occurred earlier today at the Iyana Ishasi U-turn inward Mile 2.
According to LASTMA, the Howo truck, in an ill-fated attempt to navigate through traffic at an excessive speed, suffered a catastrophic brake failure, resulting in a complete loss of vehicular control.
The truck veered off its path and struck the unsuspected pedestrian walking along the roadside, causing instantaneous fatality.
Expressing his dismay over the unfortunate incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, praying for divine fortitude to withstand this irreplaceable loss.
He, however, reiterated that it is imperative for all motorists to uphold safety-consciousness at all times.
“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) profoundly regrets to announce a devastating road accident that occurred earlier today at the Iyana Ishasi U-turn inward Mile 2, involving a fully loaded Howo tipper devoid of registration details.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the Howo truck, in an ill-fated attempt to navigate through traffic at an excessive speed, suffered a catastrophic brake failure, resulting in a complete loss of vehicular control.
“The out-of-control vehicle tragically veered off its path and struck an innocent pedestrian walking along the roadside, causing instantaneous fatality.
“Swift intervention from Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials, in collaboration with LASTMA operatives, ensured effective management of the incident. Security reinforcement was promptly provided by officers from the Ishasi Police Division to facilitate the ongoing rescue operation.
“Expressing deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, praying for divine fortitude to withstand this irreplaceable loss.
“In his admonition, Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated the imperative for all motorists to uphold safety-consciousness at all times.
“He underscored the critical need for meticulous vehicle maintenance and strict adherence to traffic regulations to avert such avoidable tragedies.
“The LASTMA administration remains resolute in its commitment to fostering road safety, ensuring seamless traffic management, and minimizing accidents across Lagos State.”