In a series of road accidents across Lagos and Ogun states on Wednesday, 15 people narrowly escaped death, while five others sustained injuries of varying degrees. The incidents, which occurred between 7:00 am and 10:00 am, were reported by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE).
Multiple-Vehicle Collision in Lagos Injures Five
In Lagos, a multi-vehicle accident along Gerrard Road near the Bayo Kuku area left five people injured. According to a statement posted on LASTMA’s X (formerly Twitter) page, the accident involved a Hiace bus and two Toyota RAV4 vehicles.
“Five victims were swiftly rushed to the hospital for medical attention. The police and LASTMA officials were present at the scene to manage traffic and ensure the safety of other road users,” the update read.
The swift response by emergency services ensured that the injured received prompt medical care. Meanwhile, efforts to clear the debris and restore normal traffic flow were also carried out efficiently.
Two Accidents in Ogun State Leave 15 Shaken but Unharmed
In Ogun State, two separate crashes were reported along the Sagamu-Abeokuta Expressway. Fortunately, none of the occupants in either accident sustained injuries.
First Accident: Collision of Two Trucks
The first crash occurred in the Kajola area and involved an IVECO truck loaded with granite (registration number: AAB 870 YL) and a HANVAN truck (registration number: AGL 885 YH). Ogun TRACE Commandant General, Seni Ogunyemi, explained that the accident was caused by excessive speeding.
“The IVECO truck, traveling at high speed, collided with the HANVAN truck, which was attempting to merge onto the road. The impact caused the IVECO truck to lose control, leading to a collision with the culvert median. Fortunately, all four male occupants escaped without injuries,” Ogunyemi reported.
Second Accident: Brake Failure Results in Collision
A second incident occurred along the IBB Boulevard Road through the Interchange in Abeokuta, involving a Toyota Corolla (registration number: LND 979 HM) and a Nissan Micra (registration number: AYE 261 XB). The crash, caused by brake failure, resulted in the Micra colliding with the Corolla from behind.
According to Ogunyemi, 11 male adults were involved in this incident, all of whom emerged unscathed.
“The driver of the Micra explained that the brakes failed unexpectedly, leading to the collision. Thankfully, there were no injuries,” Ogunyemi said.
Authorities Emphasize Road Safety
In response to these incidents, both LASTMA and TRACE have reiterated the importance of adhering to road safety measures to prevent such occurrences. Excessive speeding, brake failure, and improper merging were highlighted as major causes of accidents on Nigerian roads.
Ogun TRACE Commandant General Ogunyemi urged drivers to prioritize vehicle maintenance and adhere to speed limits. “Regular maintenance, including checking brakes and other essential components, is crucial to avoiding accidents. Speeding must also be avoided, especially on busy highways,” he stated.
LASTMA also emphasized the need for vigilance while driving, particularly in high-traffic areas. They reminded motorists to report any signs of mechanical failure immediately and seek professional assistance.
Road Safety Campaigns to Continue
In light of these accidents, authorities in both Lagos and Ogun states are intensifying road safety awareness campaigns. These initiatives aim to educate drivers on the risks of speeding, the importance of routine vehicle checks, and adherence to traffic regulations.
As the festive season approaches, the agencies have promised to enhance surveillance on major roads to ensure the safety of all commuters.
These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for caution and responsibility on the road, not only to protect individual lives but also to ensure the safety of other road users. Authorities continue to stress the importance of taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and safeguard lives.
