NIGERIA: Truck Plunges Off Oshodi Bridge, LASTMA Rescuesinjured victim

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

A fully loaded six-tyre truck plunged off the Oshodi Bridge on Saturday after suffering a brake failure, leaving one person severely injured. The prompt intervention of operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) prevented further casualties and restored normal traffic flow in the area.

The incident, which occurred while the truck with registration number AKD 135 YK was descending from Oshodi-Oke inward Mile 2, involved a vehicle reportedly conveying tonner printing materials. Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck experienced a mechanical malfunction that caused the driver to lose control, leading to the crash into the terminal below.

Officials of LASTMA arrived at the scene within minutes and immediately commenced rescue operations.

According to a statement by the agency through its official X handle, operatives rescued a male victim who sustained severe injuries and conveyed him to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment. The driver of the truck was apprehended and handed over to security operatives from the Makinde Police Station, Oshodi, for further investigation.

To ensure the safety of other road users, LASTMA officers cordoned off the accident scene, diverted vehicular movement, and supervised the clearance of the wreckage. Traffic flow was restored shortly after the rescue operations.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki, commended the officers for their swift and professional response, describing their efforts as a reflection of the agency’s commitment to public safety and operational excellence.

In his words, “Our officers have once again demonstrated vigilance and professionalism in handling emergencies. LASTMA remains committed to protecting lives and ensuring traffic orderliness, particularly during the ember months when accident risks are heightened.”

Mr. Oki added that heavy-duty recovery vehicles and over 2,700 personnel have been strategically deployed across the five administrative divisions of Lagos to strengthen the agency’s 24-hour traffic management operations and enhance emergency response.

He urged motorists to ensure regular vehicle maintenance and compliance with traffic regulations to prevent avoidable accidents.