Tragic Truck Accident Claims Three Lives In Ikorodu, Lagos

A devastating accident involving an articulated truck claimed three lives, injured one person, and left another missing on Sunday afternoon at PZ Junction in Odogunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) reported that the incident occurred at approximately 1:55 p.m. and was attributed to reckless driving by the truck operator. The truck, carrying twin 20-foot containers filled with goods, lost control, skidded off the road, and rammed into a stationary containerized truck. The collision caused the parked truck to crash into nearby roadside shops, resulting in fatalities and severe property damage.

LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the tragedy, saying: “Five adult males were trapped under the wreckage and debris. While one person was rescued alive, three were recovered deceased, and one individual remains unaccounted for as rescue operations continue.”

Emergency services swiftly responded to distress calls made through the state’s 767/112 emergency hotline. Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted that LASEMA’s team promptly arrived to secure the scene, deploying heavy-duty equipment such as the ‘Super Metro’ to recover trapped victims and clear the debris. Additional machinery has been placed on standby to aid in the search for the missing person.

Eyewitnesses, including affected shop owners, expressed their sorrow over the loss of life and property. A shopkeeper who suffered damages stated, “This is a disaster none of us expected.” Calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations for heavy-duty vehicles echoed throughout the community to prevent future tragedies.

Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu emphasized the need for articulated vehicle drivers to adhere strictly to safety protocols. He urged transport companies to prioritize driver training and regular vehicle maintenance, warning that reckless driving poses grave risks to lives and property. “This unfortunate incident underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure safer roads in Lagos,” he added.

In response to the tragedy, the Lagos State government has assured the public of its dedication to seeking justice for the victims while intensifying efforts to enhance road safety.