The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has arrested a tanker driver who allegedly fled after crushing a commercial dispatch rider to death in a tragic hit-and-run accident along Kodesho Road, Ikeja.
The fatal incident occurred opposite Mrs Filling Station, inward Awolowo Way/Oba Akran, on the Maryland-Ikeja corridor, when the fully loaded tanker with registration number T-19089LA, carrying 33-litre containers of groundnut oil, reportedly knocked down the motorcyclist, killing him instantly.
According to LASTMA, the driver attempted to escape without rendering assistance or reporting the accident, but officials swiftly tracked and intercepted the vehicle following a distress call.
The agency said the suspect and the tanker have been handed over to the State Traffic Department (STD) of the Area ‘F’ Police Command, Ikeja, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
LASTMA officers also secured the crash scene, controlled traffic and coordinated emergency responders to ensure the smooth evacuation of the victim and minimise disruption along the busy corridor.
Colleagues of the deceased rider, who arrived shortly after the accident, were said to have informed his family of the heartbreaking loss while mourning the death of their co-worker.
Reacting to the tragedy, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the incident as painful and avoidable, extending his condolences to the victim’s family.
He urged tanker drivers and operators of other heavy-duty vehicles to obey traffic rules, avoid reckless driving and always stop to assist victims after accidents.
Bakare-Oki warned that speeding, dangerous driving and fleeing the scene of an accident are grave offences with serious legal consequences.
He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to working with the Nigeria Police Force and other emergency agencies to improve road safety and ensure prompt response to traffic emergencies across Lagos.
The agency also urged residents to report road crashes and other traffic emergencies through its toll-free emergency line, 3367, for immediate intervention.
