Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
A major tragedy was narrowly averted on Saturday when a fully loaded six-tyre truck plunged off the Oshodi Bridge, inward Mile 2, in Lagos. The accident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, was reportedly caused by a brake failure, sending the truck crashing into the terminal ditch beneath the bridge.
The truck, identified by registration number AKD 135 YK, was transporting toner printing materials when it lost control while descending from the Oshodi-Oke Bridge. Eyewitnesses said panic ensued as the heavy vehicle veered off the bridge, causing a loud crash that drew the attention of passersby and traffic officers nearby.
Confirming the incident, Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), said operatives swiftly moved to the scene and rescued a severely injured man trapped in the wreckage.
“Our officers arrived promptly, rescued the injured victim, and immediately restored order to prevent a buildup of traffic around the area,” Taofiq said. “The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital, while the driver was detained and handed over to officers from Makinde Police Station, Oshodi, for further investigation.”
He explained that the affected section of the bridge was temporarily cordoned off to prevent secondary accidents, while recovery teams worked to clear the debris and reopen the road to motorists.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki, commended the quick and professional response of the agency’s operatives, noting that their swift intervention prevented potential loss of life and massive gridlock in the area.
“This incident underscores the importance of our round-the-clock operations across Lagos,” Oki stated. “Our officers are strategically deployed with recovery vehicles and emergency units to ensure timely response to traffic emergencies.”
Oki further appealed to drivers—particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles—to carry out routine maintenance and adhere strictly to road safety regulations, especially during the ember months, when road mishaps tend to rise.
He assured the public that LASTMA would continue to prioritize the safety of road users and ensure smooth traffic flow across the state.
“Our commitment remains firm: to safeguard lives, prevent accidents, and maintain order on Lagos roads before, during, and after the festive period,” Oki said.
