Chaos broke out on Tuesday as a truck fatally crushed an unidentified pedestrian at the Iyana-Ishasi U-turn, heading towards Mile 2 in Lagos State.
This tragedy occurred less than 24 hours after a similar incident at Ilubirin, near Sura, on the Lagos Third Mainland Bridge, where a pedestrian lost their life, and five others were hospitalized following a collision involving two vehicles.
The latest accident, involving a fully loaded Howo tipper with an unregistered number, happened around 11 a.m., according to eyewitness Mr. John Adebiyi.
Some individuals attempted to exploit the situation by threatening to set the truck on fire, but prompt intervention by security personnel from the Nigeria Police, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) prevented further unrest.
LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, stated that the truck experienced catastrophic brake failure while speeding through traffic, resulting in the driver losing control entirely.
“The out-of-control vehicle tragically veered off its path and struck an innocent pedestrian walking along the roadside, causing an instantaneous fatality,” Bakare-Oki stated.
He commended the collaborative efforts of FRSC and LASTMA officials, who managed the incident effectively, while officers from the Ishasi Police Division provided security reinforcement for the ongoing rescue operation.
Expressing deep sorrow, Bakare-Oki extended condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for divine fortitude to bear the loss.
He emphasized the importance of safety consciousness among motorists, stressing the need for regular vehicle maintenance and strict adherence to traffic regulations to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
“The LASTMA administration remains committed to fostering road safety, ensuring seamless traffic management, and minimizing accidents across Lagos State,” he added.
The body of the deceased has been taken to the General Hospital in Igando for further procedures.