The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed that a tragic road accident at Iyana Ejigbo claimed the life of a pedestrian and left two others seriously injured after a commercial bus suffered a brake failure.
According to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the incident occurred on Saturday and involved a painted commercial LT bus with registration number AAA 927 YJ.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the commercial bus, reportedly speeding, experienced a catastrophic brake failure, causing the driver to lose control,” Bakare-Oki said in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He explained that the vehicle veered off the road and crashed into unsuspecting pedestrians, pinning one of them beneath the bus.
“In a disturbing turn of events, both the driver and conductor of the vehicle fled the scene immediately, abandoning the victims and the bus,” he said.
LASTMA officials, alongside personnel from the Ejigbo Police Division, were said to have responded swiftly to the incident. The deceased victim was extricated from beneath the vehicle, while the two injured individuals were given prompt medical assistance.
“All three victims were immediately taken to the General Hospital in Isolo for emergency treatment,” Bakare-Oki confirmed.
He further noted that the accident vehicle has been handed over to the police for a thorough investigation.
Expressing his sympathy, Bakare-Oki said, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and wish the injured persons a quick and full recovery.”
He used the opportunity to caution motorists against reckless driving and to ensure regular maintenance of their vehicles, especially the braking systems.
“This unfortunate incident is a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by vehicle neglect and speeding. We urge all drivers to observe speed limits and carry out routine vehicle checks,” he said.
He reaffirmed LASTMA’s dedication to road safety in Lagos, stating: “LASTMA remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property. Our officers are trained to respond swiftly to emergencies and protect road users at all costs.”
Bakare-Oki encouraged the public to report traffic violations, emergencies, or road-related incidents using the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862 (0800-00-LASTMA).
