A reckless trailer driver’s excessive speed led to a tragic accident in the Ojodu Berger area of Lagos, leaving a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority officer severely injured.
According to a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq the incident occurred as the officer was heading to resume his afternoon duty.
The statement adds that preliminary reports, the trailer, which has a Bauchi State registration number KTG 33 ZZ, was traveling from Agidingbi via Oba Ogunji Road toward Omole Junction in Ogba when the driver lost control due to excessive speed.
Eyewitnesses said the impact of the crash was severe, causing the officer to sustain multiple injuries, including a fractured right leg and hand. Medical experts at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital determined that the damage was critical, requiring an immediate amputation of his right leg.
In an attempt to flee justice, the trailer driver abandoned the scene but was later apprehended through a coordinated effort by officers from the Ojodu Police Station and LASTMA officials.
Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, visited the injured officer at LASUTH and strongly condemned the driver’s negligence.
“This unfortunate accident could have been prevented if the driver had exercised caution and adhered to basic road safety rules,” he stated.
He also appealed to trailer and truck drivers, as well as all motorists, to prioritize safety on the roads.
“LASTMA officers are not the enemy. Their role is to ensure smooth traffic flow, which contributes to economic growth and urban efficiency in Lagos,” Bakare-Oki added.
Expressing deep sympathy, he wished the injured officer a speedy recovery and reaffirmed LASTMA’s dedication to maintaining road safety and ensuring orderliness on Lagos roads.
