A tragic accident occurred early Sunday along Old Ipaja road by Agbotikuyo, where a 40-foot container-laden truck crushed a commercial minibus, killing the driver and injuring three others.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the articulated Mack truck, with registration number MUS 729 XY, reportedly suffered a brake failure before crashing onto the minibus, popularly known as ‘Korope’.

The minibus driver died instantly, while three passengers, two women and a man, were rescued alive by LASTMA officials and handed over to medical personnel for immediate evaluation, although they sustained no visible injuries.

The crash caused major traffic congestion, blocking more than half of the roadway and spilling gridlock into adjoining streets such as Shofunde and Olufunlayo.

LASTMA operatives quickly implemented traffic diversion measures to ease the flow.

In a related development, the truck driver, who attempted to flee the scene, was apprehended by LASTMA officers and handed over to the Nigeria Police.

Officers from both Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions were present at the scene.

Personnel from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police joined efforts to recover the deceased, secure the area, and restore order.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, expressed condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized the urgent need for roadworthiness compliance among heavy-duty vehicle operators.

He said, “Truck operators must adhere strictly to safety protocols. It is non-negotiable that every articulated vehicle undergo thorough mechanical inspection, especially the braking systems, before hitting the road. Preventable tragedies like this must end.”

Hon. Giwa also reaffirmed the government’s resolve to enforce road safety regulations, enhance emergency response systems, and ensure strict compliance with vehicle inspection protocols. (The Nation)