In a most harrowing and unfortunate incident, a lone vehicular crash involving a black Toyota Tundra bearing registration number FST 222 HV tragically claimed the life of an innocent female pedestrian earlier today at the Mosalasi Roundabout, situated along New Ipaja Road in the Ipaja axis of Lagos State.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle, travelling at an egregiously excessive speed, veered uncontrollably off the carriageway, mounted the pedestrian walkway, and fatally struck a woman who died instantly from the impact. The momentum of the vehicle subsequently propelled it into a nearby private premises known to be engaged in the sale of livestock, where it inflicted significant structural damage to the perimeter fence and an adjoining advertising billboard.
Eyewitnesses at the scene report that the driver, upon realising the gravity of the calamity he had caused, made a frantic attempt to flee the scene. However, thanks to the prompt, coordinated and courageous intervention of officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the suspect was swiftly apprehended and restrained.
In accordance with protocol, LASTMA operatives handed the driver over to security personnel from the Gowon Estate Command, who were present at the site of the incident.
Additionally, the remains of the deceased woman were respectfully relinquished to officers of the Nigeria Police Force for requisite procedures.
Subsequent developments confirm that the suspect has been taken into custody and is currently undergoing rigorous interrogation by police authorities as part of an ongoing and thorough investigation into the incident.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed his profound sorrow over the tragic loss of life and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. In his words:
“This is a deeply sorrowful occurrence that underscores the grave consequences of reckless driving. We mourn with the family of the deceased and pray earnestly that the Almighty grants them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
Mr. Bakare-Oki further issued a clarion call to all motorists—private and commercial alike—urging them to subject their vehicles to routine safety checks, with particular emphasis on the integrity of braking systems.
He reiterated that adherence to traffic regulations is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative to safeguard lives and property on Lagos roads.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority remains steadfast in its commitment to enforcing traffic laws and promoting road safety culture throughout the state.
Adebayo Taofiq
Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA.