Precious Enaike
Tragedy struck at Pokia Junction, inward Araga, along the Epe–Ijebu Road, Epe, after an empty Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) tanker crushed a commercial motorcyclist and his passenger to death.
Preliminary investigations by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) revealed that the motorcycle rider, who was conveying a male passenger, drove against traffic in clear violation of existing regulations. In the process, he was hit by the tanker, which was said to be on high speed. The severe impact led to the instant death of both the rider and his passenger.
LASTMA, in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, said: “Our operatives were promptly mobilised to the scene of the occurrence. The tanker driver was immediately taken into custody, while the affected area was decisively cordoned off to avert secondary mishaps and guarantee public safety. Relevant security agencies, including the FRSC, were duly notified in strict adherence to established emergency response protocols.
“Thereafter, the remains of the deceased motorcyclist and his passenger, together with the apprehended tanker driver, were formally handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Noforija Police Division for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action. In a deliberate move to restore traffic order and forestall congestion along the corridor, LASTMA officials expeditiously evacuated the tanker from the carriageway, thereby facilitating the seamless flow of vehicular movement within the affected axis.”
Also, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the incident as “a sorrowful and sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of traffic law violations.” He lamented that the loss of two lives in such a manner underscored the need for greater caution and strict observance of road safety rules by all categories of road users.
“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and observed a moderate speed, this fatal incident would not have occurred,” Giwa stated.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Lagos State Government to intensify the enforcement of traffic laws in order to protect lives and property, he said: “We will continue to strengthen enforcement and public enlightenment, but all road users must also play their part by cultivating discipline and showing uncompromising adherence to traffic regulations.”
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