A tragic head-on collision along the Badagry Expressway has claimed the life of a commercial tricycle rider after a Mercedes-Benz SUV, allegedly driven against traffic, rammed into the oncoming tricycle and fled the scene.
The accident occurred over the weekend at Origan, Oko-Afo, along the heavily trafficked Ile-Epo–Oko-Afo corridor. Eyewitnesses reported that the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC SUV, with the customized licence plate OSUNFNKE, was driving one-way when it collided with the tricycle, registration number MUS 716 QM, killing the operator instantly.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) condemned the incident, describing it as the result of gross recklessness and a flagrant disregard for traffic laws. Preliminary investigations confirmed that the SUV driver was in clear violation of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
According to LASTMA officials, the tricyclist suffered multiple traumatic injuries, including a severe knee dislocation, and died on the spot. In a shocking turn, the SUV driver reportedly abandoned both the vehicle and the deceased, fleeing the scene without rendering aid.
Swiftly arriving LASTMA operatives secured the scene and handed over the case to officers from the Morogbo Police Division. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were also on-site to evacuate the remains of the victim to the Badagry General Hospital mortuary. Both vehicles have been taken into police custody pending further investigation and possible prosecution.
LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep outrage over the incident, calling it “a blatant affront to public safety” and a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of traffic law violations.
“This avoidable tragedy highlights the perils of impunity on our roads,” Bakare-Oki said. “Despite continuous public education and enforcement, some motorists still exhibit shocking levels of disregard for human life.”
He reiterated LASTMA’s commitment to traffic control and enforcement, emphasizing that road safety would be maintained through a combination of proactive patrols, public sensitization, and stiff penalties for violators.
“We call on all road users to respect traffic rules and value human life. A single life lost due to recklessness is one too many,” he added.
The General Manager extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and warned motorists against one-way driving and similar life-threatening violations.
“This kind of lawlessness has no place in a civil society,” he concluded.