An unidentified commercial tricycle operator has been reported dead, and two passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries during a multi-vehicle collision around Ekoro Junction in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The vehicles involved in the auto crash were the truck with number plate AGL 514 XD, Honda Pilot FST 992 DV, and Toyota Camry EKY 753 JA; meanwhile, the tricycle was unregistered before the tragedy.
It was learnt that the accident occurred on Wednesday after the truck experienced brake failure, and efforts by the driver to prevent the auto crash proved abortive.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who confirmed the accident, described the accident as both tragic and preventable.
He emphasized that such accidents could be averted through strict adherence to statutory speed limits and the regular maintenance of heavy-duty braking systems.
He said: “The trailer, in its uncontrollable descent, crushed the tricycle beyond recognition, before colliding with a Honda Pilot and eventually vaulting over the median to smash into a Toyota Camry and adjacent property on the opposing lane.
“Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) arrived at the scene with remarkable alacrity, exhibiting commendable professionalism and efficiency. They promptly rescued two severely trapped victims after confirming the instantaneous death of the tricycle operator. The accident scene was immediately cordoned off to forestall secondary incidents and facilitate a seamless emergency operation.
“Upon securing the area, LASTMA personnel swiftly notified relevant emergency agencies, including operatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SHEMU). Thereafter, security officers from the Ile-Epo Police Division conveyed the deceased tricycle operator, alongside the two critically injured survivors, to the General Hospital, Ile-Epo, for urgent medical attention and proper procedural documentation”.
In a statement made available to newsmen by LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, he urged motorists to ensure frequent mechanical inspections and observe safety protocols on the road.
