A fatal road accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, along Old Ipaja Road near Agbotikuyo, en route to Iyana Ipaja in Lagos State.
The tragic incident claimed the life of a commercial minibus driver after a fully-laden 40-foot Mack containerised truck reportedly suffered a brake failure and toppled onto the minibus, popularly known as “Korope.”
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident in an official statement released by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq. According to him, the collision was caused by a catastrophic mechanical failure of the truck (registration number MUS 729 XY), which led it to lose control and crush the minibus.
“The tragic impact led to the instantaneous death of the minibus driver, who died on the spot while on duty,” the statement noted.
In a swift emergency response, LASTMA officers stationed in the vicinity quickly intervened. Their prompt action led to the successful rescue of three surviving passengers—two females and one male—who were found uninjured but were immediately handed over to medical responders for thorough evaluation and care.
The aftermath of the crash significantly disrupted vehicular movement across the axis. The overturned articulated truck blocked more than 50 percent of the roadway, causing a major traffic snarl that extended to nearby streets including Shofunde and Olufunlayo. LASTMA operatives promptly implemented comprehensive traffic control measures and diversions to reduce the gridlock and restore normal traffic flow.
In a bid to escape justice, the truck driver attempted to flee the scene. However, he was swiftly apprehended by vigilant LASTMA officers and handed over to law enforcement agents from Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions, who had been alerted by the traffic agency.
Emergency responders from several agencies collaborated to manage the situation. Personnel from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police Force worked jointly under LASTMA’s coordination to recover the accident scene, secure the area, and restore order.
Reacting to the tragic event, the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate loss of life. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized the urgent need for stricter adherence to safety protocols among truck operators.
“It is imperative that all operators of articulated vehicles subject their trucks to routine and thorough mechanical checks, particularly their braking systems, before going on the road,” Giwa stated. “Incidents like this are avoidable and highlight the critical need for uncompromising safety compliance.”
Giwa reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring road safety, rigorous traffic law enforcement, and timely emergency response. He assured the public of continued efforts to prevent such tragedies and protect lives on the roads.
LASTMA concluded the statement by encouraging Lagos residents to stay vigilant and make use of its toll-free helpline for any traffic-related emergencies or inquiries.
“For real-time traffic updates or to request emergency intervention, members of the public are urged to contact LASTMA via its toll-free line: 0800-00-LASTMA (080000527862),” the agency stated.