A potential tragedy was narrowly averted in Lagos on Saturday after operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, rescued an injured man from a fully loaded six-tyre truck that plunged off the Oshodi Bridge inward Mile 2.
The truck, with registration number AKD 135 YK, was said to be conveying toner printing materials when it reportedly suffered a brake failure while descending the Oshodi-Oke Bridge. The vehicle veered off course and crashed into a ditch near the terminal below, causing panic among onlookers.
Confirming the incident, Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, said the quick response of the agency’s personnel helped prevent what could have been a major disaster.
“Our officers arrived at the scene within minutes, rescued the injured victim, and swiftly restored traffic flow in the area,” Taofiq stated.
He explained that the victim was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care, while the truck driver was arrested and handed over to police operatives from Makinde Police Station, Oshodi, for further investigation.
Taofiq added that the accident scene was quickly secured to prevent secondary crashes, and the wreckage was cleared to allow for the free movement of vehicles.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr Bakare Oki, commended his officers for their professionalism and swift intervention, describing the rescue effort as evidence of the agency’s operational readiness and commitment to protecting lives.
Oki urged motorists, particularly truck and commercial drivers, to carry out regular vehicle maintenance and adhere to safety standards, especially during the ember months, when road accidents tend to rise.
He also revealed that LASTMA had intensified its 24-hour traffic management and emergency operations across the state, with recovery trucks and response teams stationed at key locations to ensure quick intervention when needed.
“Our officers remain on high alert to safeguard lives and property and to keep Lagos roads safe before, during, and after the festive season,” Oki assured.
