The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has taken a tanker driver into custody following a devastating road crash that claimed two lives in the Epe area of Lagos State.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The fatal accident occurred on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the Pokia Junction, inward Araga, along the busy Epe–Ijebu Road. Preliminary investigations by authorities indicate that a commercial motorcyclist, carrying a male passenger, was illegally riding against the flow of traffic, a clear violation of traffic laws.
At the same time, an empty Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker was speeding along the road. The two vehicles collided with tremendous force, resulting in the immediate deaths of both the motorcycle rider and his passenger.
Swift Response and Arrest
Officials from LASTMA were quick to arrive at the scene of the tragedy. According to a statement released by Adebayo Taofiq, the Director of LASTMA's Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, the agency's operatives secured the area to prevent secondary accidents and ensure public safety.
The driver of the empty tanker was promptly arrested at the scene. Following standard emergency protocols, other relevant agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were notified of the incident.
To restore normal traffic flow and prevent gridlock, LASTMA officials moved the involved tanker away from the main carriageway. The remains of the two deceased individuals and the arrested tanker driver were subsequently handed over to officers at the Noforija Police Division of the Nigeria Police Force for a comprehensive investigation and necessary legal proceedings.
Official Condolences and Safety Warnings
Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, expressed his profound sympathy to the families of the victims. He described the event as a heartbreaking reminder of the severe consequences that can result from disobeying traffic regulations.
Giwa issued a strong caution to all commercial motorcyclists and road users, urging them to strictly avoid traffic violations. He specifically warned against the dangerous practices of driving against traffic (one-way) and engaging in reckless behaviour around larger vehicles like tankers.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's unwavering commitment to enforcing traffic laws as a critical measure to protect lives and property on the roads. LASTMA echoed this sentiment, calling on the public to regard traffic laws as essential safeguards designed for everyone's safety.
