The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has raised concern over the vulnerability of dispatch riders on major highways following the death of another rider in less than 24 hours on Otedola Bridge.
The general manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said this in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos.
Bakare-Oki said the crash, which involved a heavy-duty Volvo truck and a dispatch rider, happened on Otedola Bridge, inward Secretariat, along the Ogudu Toll Gate corridor.
According to him, the devastating impact resulted in the immediate loss of the rider’s life at the scene.
“LASTMA operatives on routine patrol around Otedola promptly secured and cordoned off the accident area to forestall any secondary incidents, particularly given the high vehicular density along the corridor.
“The remains of the deceased dispatch rider were handed over to officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps who were present at the scene in support of traffic management operations.
“Security reinforcement was provided by policemen from the Alausa Police Station to ensure orderliness throughout the rescue and evacuation process,” he said.
He said, notwithstanding the prompt response of emergency personnel, the incident triggered considerable traffic congestion, with a backlog stretching towards the Berger axis.
He added that LASTMA officials, however, worked diligently to mitigate the gridlock and restore seamless vehicular movement within the shortest possible time.
Bakare-Oki emphasised the urgent need for heightened vigilance, strict compliance with traffic regulations and an enhanced culture of safety among all categories of road users, particularly operators of articulated vehicles and dispatch riders.
“LASTMA remains resolute in its commitment to collaborating with relevant stakeholders in intensifying advocacy initiatives aimed at reducing road fatalities and fostering a sustainable culture of road safety across Lagos State,” he said. (NAN)
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