1 dead as speeding truck overturns in Lagos

By Faheem Lawal

One person has been killed after a Mercedes-Benz truck overturned around the TREM axis of Gbagada, inward Oshodi, Lagos, following a tyre burst in the early hours of the day.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said its operatives swiftly moved to the scene to prevent further casualties and ensure the safety of other road users.

According to LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Adebayo Taofiq, the fully loaded truck, conveying assorted consignments, including sealed bags and newly branded event chairs, was reportedly speeding when its front tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control.

He said an elderly male passenger seated in the front cabin was thrown out of the vehicle during the driver’s attempt to stabilise the truck.

The passenger reportedly struck his head against a sharp object and died instantly.

LASTMA’s Night Rescue Team, which was on surveillance patrol, promptly mobilised to the scene, cordoned off the area and evacuated the deceased into an emergency medical services ambulance, preventing further exposure on the busy carriageway.

Personnel of the Pedro Police Division and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also supported the rescue operation, while LASTMA officials deployed traffic cones and warning signals to prevent secondary collisions.

The statement said the truck could not be immediately recovered due to the volume of its cargo. The goods were subsequently transferred to another truck before the overturned vehicle was removed.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the bereaved family, describing the death as a painful and avoidable loss.

He condemned excessive speeding, noting that it reduces reaction time, compromises vehicle stability and increases the severity of road crashes, particularly when sudden mechanical failures occur.

Bakare-Oki said the consequences of the incident could have been less severe if the truck had been travelling at a controlled speed.

He urged heavy-duty vehicle operators, commercial transporters and other motorists, particularly during the “ember” months, to conduct regular mechanical inspections and pay close attention to tyres, brakes and other critical vehicle components before embarking on journeys.

He also advised drivers to remain calm and apply proper vehicle-control techniques whenever they encounter sudden mechanical faults.