A newly married couple and 16 others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a multi-vehicle accident on the Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos, on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
The couple, returning from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry, were among the occupants of a commercial LT bus involved in the crash.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, confirmed the incident in a statement, attributing the accident to brake failure on the LT bus, which was traveling at excessive speed. The bus collided with a mini truck moving slowly due to mechanical issues.
“The accident involved a mini truck with number plate AGL 22 YE and a commercial LT bus with number plate BFG 204 XF. Unfortunately, brake failure on the LT bus caused the collision, leading to significant injuries among passengers,” Taofiq said.
LASTMA, in collaboration with emergency response agencies, orchestrated the rescue of the 18 victims. According to Taofiq, the injured included 11 women and 5 men who were passengers in the LT bus.
“All victims were promptly transported to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre near the Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway for urgent medical care,” he added.
Two individuals with severe injuries were trapped in the wreckage but were successfully extricated by LASTMA personnel, emergency responders, and bystanders. These victims were later rushed to Gbagada General Hospital for specialized treatment.
Expressing sympathy for the victims, LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, called for increased vigilance among road users.
“Maintaining vehicles in optimal condition, particularly the braking system, and adhering to speed limits are crucial to preventing such tragedies,” Bakare-Oki stated. He also emphasized the importance of LASTMA’s ongoing public enlightenment campaigns, led by the Female Elite Corps, to promote road safety during the festive season.
Emergency agencies involved in the rescue included LASTMA, LASEMA, LASAMBUS, and the police.
LASTMA’s General Manager reiterated the importance of safe driving practices, particularly during the holiday period. “We urge motorists, especially commercial bus operators, to prioritize safety and regular vehicle maintenance to avoid preventable accidents,” he added.
