Dare Babalola
There was tension along the Epe–Ijebu Road, Epe, Lagos State on Wednesday as a Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker crushed a commercial motorcyclist and his passenger to death.
The incident was confirmed by Adebayo Taofiq, the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
LASTMA also announced the arrest of the driver of the empty PMS tanker describing the accident which occurred at Pokia Junction, inward Araga as preventable.
Preliminary security findings disclosed that the commercial motorcyclist, who was conveying a male passenger, was unlawfully traversing a prohibited route (one-way), in blatant contravention of existing traffic statutes when he was struck by the empty PMS tanker who was on a high speed.
“The violent impact proved fatal, resulting in the instantaneous death of both the rider and his passenger,” said LASTMA.
Exhibiting commendable professionalism, operational competence, and swift emergency responsiveness, LASTMA operatives promptly mobilised to the scene of the occurrence. The tanker driver was immediately taken into custody, while the affected area was decisively cordoned off to avert secondary mishaps and guarantee public safety.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Honourable Sola Giwa, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, characterising the occurrence as a sorrowful and sobering testament to the devastating repercussions of traffic law infractions.
“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and observed a moderate speed, this fatal incident would not have occurred,” Giwa remarked.
He further reaffirmed the unwavering resolve of the Lagos State Government to intensify traffic law enforcement while safeguarding lives and property across the state, urging all road users to cultivate responsible driving conduct and uncompromising adherence to traffic regulations.
LASTMA once again implored the motoring public to regard traffic laws not as instruments of punishment, but as indispensable safeguards instituted to protect human lives and ensure harmonious coexistence on Lagos roads.
