Truck Crash Claims Life of Minibus Driver in Lagos: Tragedy on Old Ipaja Road
June 22, 2025: A devastating road accident of a truck occurred in the early hours of Sunday along Old Ipaja Road by Agbotikuyo, en route to Iyana Ipaja, leading to the tragic death of a commercial minibus driver. The crash involved a fully-laden 40-foot Mack containerised truck, which, according to authorities, experienced a catastrophic brake failure that caused it to topple onto the minibus.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident in an official statement released on Sunday. Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, described the incident as deeply regrettable, emphasizing the severity of the accident and the importance of road safety compliance among truck operators.
“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) deeply regrets to announce a harrowing road traffic incident that transpired in the early hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, along Old Ipaja Road by Agbotikuyo, en route to Iyana Ipaja,” the statement read.
The fatal crash involved a 40-foot Mack truck (registration number MUS 729 XY) carrying a container. The truck reportedly suffered a brake failure, lost control, and fell onto a commercial minibus — commonly known in Lagos as a ‘Korope’ — leading to the instant death of its driver.
Truck Accident in Lagos Raises Alarms Over Vehicle Safety
According to LASTMA, their officers responded promptly to the scene of the accident. Despite the tragic loss of the minibus driver, the rescue operation saved three other passengers — two women and one man — who were inside the vehicle at the time of the collision.
“In a remarkable display of courage and efficiency, LASTMA officers stationed along the corridor swiftly mobilized to the accident site. Three passengers were rescued unhurt and were immediately handed over to medical emergency teams for attention,” Taofiq stated.
The aftermath of the crash caused significant traffic congestion along Old Ipaja Road and neighboring routes. The fallen truck reportedly blocked over 50 percent of the arterial road, forcing traffic managers to initiate diversions.
“LASTMA operatives immediately implemented comprehensive traffic control and diversion protocols to alleviate the backlog and ensure orderliness. The congestion extended to nearby roads such as Shofunde and Olufunlayo,” Taofiq added.
Efforts to clear the truck and restore normal vehicular movement were carried out in collaboration with other emergency agencies. The coordinated recovery operation involved the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police Force.
In a shocking development, the driver of the truck allegedly tried to flee the scene after the accident. Thanks to the vigilance of LASTMA officials, he was promptly apprehended and handed over to officers from the Elere and Area ‘G’ Police Divisions.
“It is important to note that the truck driver attempted to escape responsibility but was captured by alert LASTMA personnel. He has since been transferred to law enforcement for investigation and potential prosecution,” Taofiq said.
In response to the tragic event, the Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Honourable Sola Giwa, extended his condolences to the family of the deceased minibus driver and emphasized the need for stringent safety checks among truck operators.
“Truck operators must ensure their vehicles undergo comprehensive mechanical inspections — especially focusing on braking systems — before taking to the roads. This incident could have been prevented with proper maintenance,” Giwa said.
He reiterated the Lagos State Government’s dedication to enforcing roadworthiness and traffic laws to reduce the frequency of such avoidable tragedies. Giwa also encouraged transportation companies and truck drivers to prioritize safety over speed or profit.
“The State Government remains committed to aggressive enforcement of safety regulations, improved emergency response, and public education. We cannot afford to lose more lives due to negligence,” he concluded.
As part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic management and public safety, LASTMA urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any truck or vehicle that appears unsafe or is causing obstruction on public roads. The public can reach out via the agency’s toll-free emergency line: 0800-00-LASTMA (080000527862).
The tragic incident involving a containerised truck on Old Ipaja Road highlights the urgent need for stricter mechanical oversight and roadworthiness compliance among heavy-duty vehicle operators. With effective enforcement and public cooperation, such heartbreaking losses can be minimized.
Source- EWN
