Dare Babalola
A Federal Fire Service officer had lost his life in a tragic crash at Abule-Ado of Lagos State, prompting the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to reaffirm its zero-tolerance stance on one-way driving, vowing to strictly enforce traffic rules to prevent further loss of life.
In a statement by Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, on Wednesday, the agency mourned the firefighter.
The statement reads partly, “Preliminary investigations indicate that a commercial motorcyclist riding against the approved direction of traffic (one-way) at excessive speed collided with the Firefighter as he attempted to cross the expressway. In the resulting confusion an approaching Shacman truck (registration number: JJJ 919 YK) heavily laden with sand was unable to brake effectively, culminating in the fatal incident.”
Taofiq added that LASTMA personnel deployed to the Trade Fair area responded swiftly, securing the accident site and maintaining order to safeguard other road users.
Taofiq added that LASTMA officers, assisted by passersby, secured the scene and alerted the Onireke Police Division, who promptly arrived to launch an investigation and bolster security in the area.
“The motorcyclist responsible for the initial violation fled with his motorcycle before he could be apprehended, while the driver of the Shacman truck upon recognising the gravity of the situation abandoned the vehicle and fled the scene
“The remains of the late Firefighter were respectfully evacuated by his colleagues from the Federal Fire Service using an official ambulance deployed from the Trade Fair Complex,” Taofiq added.
He said after managing the scene, LASTMA officials handed over the truck to security personnel for investigation and further action.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, has extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved family, praying that Almighty God grants them the strength and fortitude to endure this irreplaceable loss.He assured the family of LASTMA’s support during this deeply distressing period.
Lamenting the persistent and dangerous practice of driving against traffic across Lagos, the General Manager issued a stern warning to motorists and commercial motorcyclists emphasising that such reckless conduct has repeatedly resulted in needless tragedies and immeasurable anguish.
He urged all road users to obey directional signs and comply strictly with government-approved speed limits as an essential civic responsibility towards preserving human life.
LASTMA reaffirms its commitment to promoting safety, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering a disciplined and responsible driving culture in Lagos State.
