The Dangote Group and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority have expressed grief over the death of a LASTMA officer and two motorcyclists who were killed in a road crash along the Badagry Expressway on Monday.
NGGOSSIPS Metro had reported that the accident occurred around 9am when a truck allegedly suffered brake failure while approaching a junction at high speed. The vehicle reportedly swerved off its lane and rammed into the victims.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by LASTMA’s spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, the agency described the incident as heartbreaking and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
Taofiq said preliminary investigations revealed that the truck, said to belong to the Dangote Group, lost control after experiencing brake failure before ploughing into the victims.
“The driver lost control of the vehicle, which then struck a LASTMA officer who was diligently performing his traffic regulation duties, as well as a motorcyclist at the roundabout,” he said.
“The truck continued on its course, fatally hitting another motorcyclist before coming to a halt about 200 metres from the initial point of impact.
“The driver fled the scene but was subsequently apprehended by other LASTMA personnel and handed over to the police.”
According to him, the victims were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they were confirmed dead.
The LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the deceased officer as a committed public servant who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this incredibly difficult time,” he said.
“The officer who lost his life was a dedicated public servant who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of Lagos. We honour his courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty.”
Bakare-Oki assured that the agency was collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure justice is served, while urging haulage companies to prioritise safety and strict maintenance of their vehicles.
Also reacting, the spokesperson for the Dangote Group, Tony Chiejina, conveyed the company’s condolences to the families of the deceased and the management of LASTMA.
“We are aware of the incident, and it is deeply regrettable. As a company, we sympathise with the families of the victims and the management of LASTMA. We offer our deepest condolences,” he said.
Chiejina added that the company had commenced steps to reach out to the bereaved families and provide necessary support.
“We have begun the process of contacting the families and taking appropriate steps to help cushion their pain. This is a sad development, and we pray it does not recur.”
He reiterated the company’s commitment to upholding standard safety practices in its operations.
News channels won't show you this video
