JUST IN: THREE DIE IN LAGOS ROAD ACCIDENT

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Three people have been confirmed dead, one injured, and another reported missing in a tragic accident involving an articulated truck on Sunday afternoon at PZ Junction, Odogunyan, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.

According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the accident occurred around 1:55 p.m. and was caused by the recklessness of a truck driver transporting twin 20-foot containers loaded with goods.

The truck reportedly lost control, veered off the road, and crashed into a parked containerized truck. The impact caused the parked truck to smash into several roadside shops, resulting in destruction and casualties.

The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the incident, stating: “Five adult males were trapped under the parked truck and surrounding debris. One person was rescued alive, three were recovered dead at the scene, and one person remains missing as search-and-rescue efforts continue.”

Emergency teams were activated immediately following distress calls made to the 767/112 Emergency Toll-Free Lines. Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu said, “LASEMA’s team coordinated the rescue operation, ensuring safety measures were implemented by cordoning off the accident site to prevent further harm.” Heavy-duty equipment, including the ‘Super Metro,’ was deployed to assist with recovery efforts, and additional machinery is on standby to help locate the missing person.

Residents and shop owners expressed shock and grief at the loss of life and the destruction of property. A shop owner whose business was damaged said, “This is a tragedy we could not have imagined.” Many urged stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles, to prevent such incidents in the future.

Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu stressed the importance of adhering to safety regulations, especially for drivers of articulated vehicles. He urged transport companies to ensure their drivers are properly trained and vehicles are well-maintained. “The accident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and the need for proactive measures to protect lives and property on Lagos roads,” he added.

The Lagos State government has pledged its commitment to ensuring justice for the victims and improving road safety.

The following agencies participated in the rescue operation:

LASAMBUS (Lagos State Ambulance Services)

Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service

LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority)

Nigerian Army, 174 Battalion

Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC)

Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)

Nigeria Police Force, Ikorodu, Sagamu Division