The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has taken a fuel tanker driver into custody following a tragic accident that claimed two lives in the Epe area of Lagos State.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The collision occurred on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the Pokia Junction, inward Araga, along the busy Epe–Ijebu Road. According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, preliminary investigations indicate that a commercial motorcyclist, carrying a male passenger, was illegally driving against traffic on a prohibited one-way route.
Giwa stated that the speeding Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker struck the motorcycle, resulting in a violent impact. "This is a blatant contravention of existing traffic statutes," he said. "The violent impact proved fatal, resulting in the instantaneous death of both the rider and his passenger."
Emergency Response and Investigation
Upon receiving the alert, LASTMA operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene of the accident. Their immediate actions included:
- Cordoning off the affected area to prevent secondary accidents.
- Taking the tanker driver into custody.
- Notifying relevant security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), in line with emergency protocols.
The remains of the deceased were transferred to officers of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Noforija Police Division. The apprehended driver was also handed over to the police for a thorough investigation and subsequent legal action. The tanker was later evacuated from the carriageway to restore normal traffic flow.
Official Warning to Road Users
Mr. Giwa used the tragic event to issue a stern admonition to all road users, particularly commercial motorcyclists. He emphasised that the loss of lives was entirely avoidable.
"Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and observed a moderate speed, this fatal incident would not have occurred," Giwa remarked. He urged drivers to avoid reckless struggles for the right of way, especially with heavier vehicles, and to cultivate responsible driving habits.
The Special Adviser reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's commitment to intensifying traffic law enforcement across the state to safeguard lives and property.
