By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a tragic road accident that occurred over the weekend along the Lekki–Epe Expressway, opposite Beechwood in the Shapati area inward Ajah.
The unfortunate incident claimed the lives of four passengers instantly, while four others sustained severe fracture injuries.
According to preliminary findings, the crash involved a HOWO truck with registration number KNN 313 YL and a fully loaded Suzuki commercial mini bus, popularly known as “Korope.”
Initial reports indicate that the truck driver lost control while the vehicle was in motion, causing it to veer off its lane and collide head-on with the oncoming commercial bus carrying passengers along the busy expressway.
The devastating impact led to the immediate death of four male passengers. Meanwhile, four others — two men and two women — were seriously injured after being trapped inside the wreckage of the crushed vehicle.
LASTMA officials quickly responded to the emergency, working alongside other rescue teams and passersby to carefully extricate the trapped victims from the damaged bus.
The injured passengers were promptly taken to Hamon Royal Hospital for urgent medical care, while the remains of the deceased were evacuated to the Shency Hospital morgue with the assistance of an emergency ambulance from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force at the Elemoro Division maintained order at the scene and ensured the safety of rescue workers and other road users during the operation.
Authorities have since launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the truck driver and his assistant reportedly fled the scene after witnessing the severity of the accident.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended his condolences to the families of the victims. He also prayed for the quick recovery of those receiving treatment.
He further commended the coordinated efforts of emergency responders, noting that their swift intervention helped save the lives of the injured passengers.
Bakare-Oki also urged motorists, particularly drivers of articulated vehicles, to exercise caution, obey traffic regulations, and adopt responsible driving practices to prevent avoidable tragedies on Lagos roads.
