LASTMA warns motorists after deadly Third Mainland bridge collision

Stanley Ihedigbo

Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a tragic road traffic accident on the Third Mainland Bridge, resulting in the death of a woman, while her 30-year-old daughter survived the incident.

The fatal crash occurred earlier today at the Ilaje inward Iyana Oworo axis of the bridge and involved a head-on collision between two Toyota Sienna vehicles.

Authorities described the impact as severe, attributing the incident largely to reckless driving, particularly excessive speeding.

According to the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, its operatives, who were on routine patrol along the bridge, responded swiftly after receiving a distress alert.

The officials immediately implemented traffic control measures, deploying safety cones to cordon off the scene and prevent further accidents while ensuring the safety of other road users.

Personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Oworonsoki Division, also arrived promptly at the scene. The officers carried out necessary documentation and initiated statutory procedures in line with ongoing investigations.

Sadly, one female adult, identified as a mother, lost her life in the collision. Her daughter, who was in the same vehicle, survived the crash in what officials described as a miraculous escape.

The deceased’s remains have since been evacuated by security operatives, while LASTMA officials, in collaboration with other emergency responders, maintained a strong presence to manage traffic flow and prevent secondary incidents.

In a further development, one of the drivers involved in the crash reportedly fled the scene.

However, the second driver was apprehended by LASTMA operatives and subsequently handed over to the police for investigation and possible prosecution.

Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, issued a stern warning to motorists, urging them to desist from reckless driving, especially speeding, which he identified as a major cause of fatal accidents.

He called on drivers to exercise caution, strictly obey speed limits, and maintain high standards of road discipline at all times.

The agency reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring smooth traffic operations across Lagos State.