LASTMA arrests tanker driver over death of motorcyclist, passenger in Lagos
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has apprehended a Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker driver following a fatal accident that claimed the lives of a commercial motorcyclist and his passenger along the Epe–Ijebu Road in Lagos.
The incident occurred at Pokia Junction, inward Araga, Epe, according to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, who disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Giwa said preliminary investigations revealed that the motorcyclist, who was conveying a male passenger, was riding against traffic on a prohibited one-way route when he was hit by the speeding tanker.
He described the act as a clear violation of traffic regulations, noting that the impact of the collision was severe and resulted in the instant death of both the rider and his passenger.
According to him, LASTMA operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, where the tanker driver was taken into custody and the area cordoned off to prevent further accidents and ensure public safety.
He added that relevant security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were notified, while the bodies of the deceased were handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force at the Noforija Police Division.
“The apprehended tanker driver was also transferred to the police for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action,” Giwa said.
He further disclosed that the tanker was promptly removed from the road to restore free flow of traffic in the area.
Giwa warned commercial motorcyclists and other road users against disobeying traffic laws, particularly driving against traffic and engaging in reckless competition with heavy-duty vehicles.
“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Strict adherence to traffic regulations would have prevented this tragic incident,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening traffic law enforcement and protecting lives and property across the state, urging all road users to adopt responsible driving habits.