An unidentified officer of the Federal Fire Service died in a fatal road accident in Lagos on Wednesday morning.
The crash happened around the Abule Ado section of the Mile 2–Badagry Expressway, prompting the swift deployment of emergency responders to the scene.
According to witnesses, the firefighter was knocked down by a truck transporting sand to an unknown destination.
The witnesses said the deceased had attempted to avoid a commercial motorcycle operator riding against traffic, but was unfortunately struck by the truck.
Despite efforts to rush him to a hospital, the firefighter was confirmed dead at the scene.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The identity of the firefighter has been withheld pending notification of his next of kin.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who confirmed the tragic development, said the accident occurred along the Trade Fair–inward Abule Ado axis on the service lane.
Bakare-Oki disclosed that the deceased Federal Fire Service officer was stationed within the Trade Fair Complex.
He explained that preliminary investigations indicated that the crash was triggered by a commercial motorcyclist riding one-way at excessive speed.
He said the firefighter had attempted to cross the expressway and was trying to avoid being hit by the motorcycle when he became confused and was struck by an oncoming Shacman truck (registration number: JJJ 919 YK) heavily loaded with sand.
“LASTMA personnel in charge of traffic control within the Trade Fair axis responded and cordoned off the accident corridor to maintain order and ensure the safety of other road users.
“With the assistance of concerned passersby, LASTMA officers secured the scene and promptly notified the Onireke Police Division. Police operatives arrived swiftly to commence investigations and reinforce security around the area.
“The motorcyclist responsible for the initial violation escaped with his motorcycle before he could be apprehended, while the driver of the Shacman truck abandoned the vehicle and fled.
“The remains of the late firefighter were respectfully evacuated by his colleagues from the Federal Fire Service using an official ambulance deployed from the Trade Fair Complex.
“LASTMA officials handed over the impounded truck to designated security personnel for comprehensive investigation and further legal procedures,” he said.
