LASTMA apprehends PMS tanker driver over fatal collision resulting in deaths of motorcyclist, passenger at Epe

Stanley Ihedigbo

Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the arrest of the driver of an empty Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker following a fatal road traffic crash that claimed the lives of a commercial motorcyclist and his passenger at Pokia Junction, inward Araga, along the Epe–Ijebu Road in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

According to the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department
LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, preliminary investigations revealed that the commercial motorcyclist, who was conveying a male passenger, unlawfully navigated a prohibited one-way route in clear violation of extant traffic regulations.

In the course of this illegal manoeuvre, the motorcycle collided with an empty PMS tanker reportedly travelling at high speed.

The impact was severe, leading to the instantaneous death of both the rider and his passenger.

Demonstrating professionalism, operational efficiency, and swift emergency response, LASTMA operatives promptly arrived at the scene, secured the area to prevent secondary accidents, and ensured public safety.

The tanker driver was immediately apprehended, while relevant security and emergency agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), were duly notified in line with established response protocols.

Subsequently, the remains of the deceased victims, along with the apprehended tanker driver, were handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Noforija Police Division for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.

To restore traffic order and prevent congestion along the busy corridor, LASTMA officials swiftly evacuated the tanker from the roadway, enabling the free flow of vehicular movement within the affected axis.

Reacting to the tragic incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Honourable Sola Giwa, expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the occurrence as a painful reminder of the grave consequences of traffic law violations.

Hon. Giwa sternly cautioned commercial motorcyclists and all road users against the habitual disregard for traffic regulations, particularly the dangerous practice of one-way driving and reckless competition for right of way with heavy-duty vehicles.

“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and exercised caution, this tragic incident would not have occurred,” the Special Adviser stated.

He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to the enforcement of traffic laws and the protection of lives and property across the state, urging all road users to embrace responsible driving habits and strict compliance with traffic regulations.

LASTMA once again appealed to the motoring public to view traffic laws not as punitive measures, but as vital safety mechanisms designed to preserve human lives and promote orderly coexistence on Lagos roads.