A tragic collision between a J5 Ford bus and a Mercedes truck on Lagos’ Third Mainland Bridge has claimed one life and left four others injured. The accident occurred early on Monday, December 16, at Ilubirin, inward Sura, causing severe traffic disruptions.
Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials, led by General Manager Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, quickly responded to the scene. With help from bystanders, they rescued four victims from the wreckage, three of whom survived.
It was reported that one individual, trapped in the J5 Ford bus loaded with pepper and other perishable goods, later succumbed to their injuries.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the J5 Ford bus, with registration number FKJ 724 YC, suffered a brake failure while traveling at high speed, resulting in a collision with a Mercedes truck, identified as FKJ 746 YC.
Emergency response teams, including the LASEMA Response Unit (LRU), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigerian Police Force, and LASAMBUS, joined LASTMA at the scene to manage the situation. The survivors were swiftly transported to Lagos Island General Hospital for medical treatment.
LASTMA officials worked diligently to clear the wreckage and remove spilled goods, helping to restore traffic flow on the busy bridge.
Expressing condolences to the grieving family, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized the critical importance of road safety, particularly with the festive season approaching. He urged drivers—especially those operating heavy-duty vehicles—to avoid speeding and ensure their vehicles are in proper working condition before setting out.
“This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by faulty brakes and excessive speeding,” Bakare-Oki said. He urged motorists to prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies on the road.
