The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has arrested a tanker driver who allegedly fled after fatally knocking down a commercial delivery motorcycle rider along Kodesho Road, opposite Mrs Filling Station, inward Awolowo Way/Oba Akran, in the Maryland-Ikeja area of Lagos.
According to LASTMA, the accident involved a fully loaded tanker with registration number T-19089LA, conveying 33-litre groundnut oil, which reportedly struck and crushed the delivery rider, killing him instantly.
The agency said the driver attempted to escape without stopping to assist the victim or report the incident to the authorities. However, following a distress alert, LASTMA officials pursued and intercepted the tanker, leading to the driver’s arrest.
The suspect and the vehicle have since been handed over to the State Traffic Department (STD), Area ‘F’ Police Command, Ikeja, for investigation and possible prosecution.
LASTMA officials also secured the accident scene, managed traffic around the area and coordinated emergency response efforts to ensure the free flow of vehicles during the recovery operation.
The agency said fellow delivery riders at the scene contacted the deceased’s family and expressed grief over the loss of their colleague.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the crash as tragic and avoidable, while extending condolences to the victim’s family.
He urged operators of tankers, articulated vehicles and other heavy-duty trucks to drive responsibly, obey traffic regulations and avoid reckless driving, excessive speeding and fleeing accident scenes.
Bakare-Oki also reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to working with the Nigeria Police Force and other emergency agencies to improve road safety and ensure prompt response to traffic incidents across Lagos.
The agency encouraged residents to report road crashes and traffic emergencies through its toll-free emergency hotline, 3367, for immediate intervention.