By Olakunle Oke
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a fatal road traffic incident involving a DAF articulated truck and a cyclist under the LASUTH Bridge along the Airport Road corridor in Ikeja.
Preliminary findings indicate that the incident occurred as both the cyclist and the truck, approaching from the Maryland axis, attempted to navigate the roundabout beneath the bridge at the same time. In the process, the cyclist reportedly failed to maintain a safe distance from the moving truck.
The situation escalated rapidly, resulting in the cyclist being crushed by the articulated vehicle and sustaining fatal injuries on the spot.
LASTMA officials who were on duty regulating traffic in the area responded promptly to the incident and successfully intercepted the truck driver, who attempted to flee the scene.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to officers of the Ikeja Police Division for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with the law.
To prevent further accidents and restore traffic flow, officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SHEMU) were invited to evacuate the remains of the deceased from the roadway.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
He prayed for strength and comfort for the family during the difficult period.
Hon. Giwa also used the opportunity to caution cyclists and commercial motorbike riders to exercise greater care and prioritize their safety while using Lagos roads.
He reiterated that cyclists are prohibited from using expressways, highways, and other major roads where the risk of fatal accidents is high.
According to him, the Lagos State Government has consistently carried out public sensitisation through jingles and awareness campaigns to educate cyclists, skateboard users, and other vulnerable road users on the need to restrict their movements to inner roads and low-risk routes.
The Lagos State Government, through LASTMA, reaffirmed its commitment to strict traffic enforcement, continuous public enlightenment, and the protection of all road users, urging motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians to obey traffic regulations to prevent avoidable tragedies.