Ambulance Incident at Lagos Marathon Triggers Public Outcry and Safety Review
An ambulance operated by the government struck and ran over a woman who was positioned near the finish line area during the 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows runners proceeding along the road before the ambulance approaches from behind and collides with the victim, who was reportedly an onlooker that slipped and fell onto the path of the vehicle.
Official Response and Victim Condition
Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State commissioner for information and strategy, confirmed the accident, explaining that the ambulance was part of the medical emergency response team for the marathon. It was transporting athletes who had previously required medical attention when the collision occurred around the medal collection zone. The woman sustained bruises and chest pain but was stabilized at the scene with vital signs remaining stable. She is currently receiving treatment and is responding positively to medical care, according to official statements.
Social Media Reactions and Criticisms
The viral clip has ignited widespread concern and shock across social media platforms, with many Nigerians questioning the emergency protocols, driver response, and overall crowd management during the high-profile event. Comments from the public reflect a mix of outrage and analysis:
- Uche Bakaadi remarked, "Nigeria happened to runner! How would an ambulance be speeding at the back of runners? Is the driver cursed because it's incomprehensible that this could happen? That it is Lagos, I'm wondering if anyhowness crept into the race organization and driver."
- TroubleMaker condemned the situation, stating, "Our things dey always different. Come be like say as the Ambulance no see anybody carry e come decide to get passenger by force."
- Caleb Garuba decried the lack of professionalism, saying, "Lagos State Ambulance services and overall professionalism are seriously lacking. If the system were functioning properly, the Director-General would have already been dismissed, the entire ambulance staff replaced, and the commissioner would be under intense scrutiny. Instead, life simply goes on as usual."
Analysis of the Incident and Broader Implications
Some users offered explanations for the accident, noting potential blind spots in the vehicle and the challenges of quick reaction times. Alldatruckus commented, "First off, this is an accident that could happen anywhere. The person fell on the driver's blind side; with how high the bus is, there’s no way the driver could have seen the person. Also, should he have stopped the vehicle ontop the person? He doesn’t even know what the bus is running over."
The Lagos state governor described the incident as "unfortunate," highlighting the need for improved safety measures at such large-scale public events. This accident has sparked a broader debate on the adequacy of emergency response systems in Nigeria, particularly in crowded urban settings like Lagos, where events often draw massive participation and spectatorship.
Context and Related Concerns
This incident follows previous safety warnings in Lagos, such as a recent alert from a pest control expert about snake hotspots in the city, which raised concerns among urban dwellers. The marathon accident underscores ongoing challenges in public safety and emergency management, prompting calls for stricter protocols and better training for personnel involved in event logistics and medical responses.
As investigations continue, stakeholders are urged to review and enhance crowd control strategies and emergency preparedness to prevent similar occurrences in future events, ensuring the safety of both participants and spectators.
