A fatal road accident involving a 40-foot containerized truck and a commercial minibus (popularly called Korope) occurred on Sunday morning along Old Ipaja Road by Agbotikuyo, Agege, Lagos, resulting in one confirmed death and three survivors.
According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the tragic incident happened when the Mack truck (registration number MUS 729 XY) reportedly suffered brake failure and toppled onto the minibus. The impact claimed the life of the minibus driver instantly, leaving a grim scene that halted early morning traffic along the busy corridor.
LASTMA operatives stationed nearby responded swiftly, rescuing three passengers — two women and a man — from the crushed vehicle. Though physically unhurt, they were immediately handed over to emergency medical teams for further evaluation.
The accident caused significant traffic disruption, obstructing more than half of the roadway and creating heavy gridlock along adjoining routes, including Shofunde and Olufunlayo. LASTMA officers promptly deployed diversion strategies and traffic control measures to ease congestion and maintain road order.
In a twist, the truck driver reportedly attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by alert LASTMA officials. He was later handed over to security personnel from Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions, who had been duly notified.
Emergency teams from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), and officers of the Nigeria Police worked alongside LASTMA to clear the wreckage, retrieve the deceased, and restore normalcy to the area.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the family of the deceased driver. He emphasized the urgent need for heightened mechanical diligence among truck operators.
“Truck operators must adhere strictly to safety protocols,” Giwa stated. “Every articulated vehicle must undergo thorough mechanical inspection, especially of the braking system, before hitting the road. This tragedy was preventable.”
He reassured residents of the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to enforcing roadworthiness standards, boosting emergency responsiveness, and improving traffic safety across the state.
Residents seeking real-time traffic updates or emergency support are encouraged to contact LASTMA via its toll-free hotline: 0800-00-LASTMA (080000527862).