The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with emergency response agencies, on Saturday the 7th of December 2024 orchestrated successful rescue of 18 individuals involved in a serious vehicular collision on the Third Mainland Bridge, near Ilaje, heading towards Iyana Oworonsoki.
Among the victims were a newlywed couple returning to the mainland from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry.
The accident, which involved a mini truck (AGL 22 YE) and a commercial LT bus (BFG 204 XF), was attributed to a brake failure on the LT bus, which was traveling at excessive speed. The bus collided with the mini truck, which was moving slowly due to mechanical difficulties.
A total of 16 passengers seated in the rear of the LT busā11 women and 5 menāsustained significant injuries and were swiftly transported to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre near the Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway for urgent medical care.
Two additional passengers seated at the front of the LT commercial bus were trapped in the wreckage and suffered severe fractures to their limbs. They were extricated with the combined efforts of LASTMA personnel, emergency responders and concerned bystanders. These victims were later rushed to Gbagada General Hospital for specialized treatment.
The Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASABUS) and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit (LRU) facilitated the swift evacuation of all casualties to medical facilities.
Law enforcement officers from Alonge Police Station and operatives of the Lagos State Task Force provided critical security support at the accident scene, ensuring order during the rescue operation.
Expressing deep sympathy for the injured, LASTMAās General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, wished them a speedy recovery. He also underscored the importance of observing speed limits and maintaining vehicles in optimal condition, particularly the braking system, to prevent such tragedies.
Mr. Bakare-Oki further highlighted the intensified public enlightenment campaigns led by LASTMAās Female Elite Corps, which aim to educate motoristsāespecially commercial bus operatorsāon safe driving practices before, during and beyond the festive season.
The public is reminded to report traffic incidents, emergencies, or road obstructions by contacting LASTMAās toll-free hotline at 0800000527862 for immediate assistance.
Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department
Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA)
