Four Killed, Others Injured in Tragic Ajah Auto Crash on Lekki-Epe Expressway
A devastating auto accident has occurred opposite Beechwood, Shapati, inward Ajah along the Lekki–Epe Expressway, resulting in the tragic deaths of four individuals and severe injuries to four others. The collision involved a HOWO Truck with registration number KNN 313 YL and a fully loaded Suzuki Commercial Mini Bus, commonly known as a Korope.
Details of the Fatal Collision
According to reports, the driver of the articulated truck lost control while in motion, causing the vehicle to veer uncontrollably across the carriageway. It then rammed into an oncoming commercial mini bus that was transporting passengers along this busy corridor. The impact of the collision was immediate and catastrophic, leading to the deaths of four male passengers. Additionally, four other occupants—two males and two females—sustained severe fracture injuries after being trapped within the mangled wreckage of the commercial vehicle.
Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) quickly mobilized to the scene, where they worked alongside other emergency responders and passersby to extricate the four trapped victims from the crushed remains of the commercial bus. The four critically injured individuals were promptly conveyed to Hamon Royal Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Meanwhile, the remains of the four deceased passengers were evacuated and deposited at Shency Hospital Morgue using an emergency ambulance provided by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
Police officers from the Elemoro Police Division were present at the accident scene to ensure orderliness and safeguard both rescue personnel and other road users throughout the emergency intervention. Notably, the driver of the truck and his motor boy fled the scene shortly after witnessing the magnitude of the tragic incident.
Official Statements and Safety Admonitions
General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed profound grief over the loss of lives and extended his condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased. He commended the collective efforts and synergy demonstrated by all emergency responders, whose timely intervention played a crucial role in the successful rescue of the trapped passengers.
Bakare-Oki further admonished motorists, particularly operators of articulated vehicles, to exercise utmost caution, strictly adhere to traffic safety regulations, and cultivate responsible driving habits. This, he emphasized, is essential to prevent avoidable road tragedies across Lagos State.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges of road safety on Nigeria's highways, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to protect lives and reduce such devastating occurrences.
