Fire Service Officer Killed in Lagos Road Crash
A Federal Fire Service officer lost his life on Wednesday in a tragic road accident along the Trade Fair–inward Abule-Ado service lane in Lagos, renewing concerns over motorists riding against traffic.
According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), preliminary investigations revealed that a commercial motorcyclist, speeding in the wrong direction, struck the firefighter as he attempted to cross the expressway.
The collision caused chaos, and a heavily loaded Shacman truck carrying sand could not brake in time, resulting in a fatal crash.
LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq said officers stationed along the Trade Fair axis quickly responded, sealing off the scene to prevent further accidents and safeguard other road users.
Police operatives from the Onireke Division were also notified and arrived promptly to begin investigations and secure the area.
The motorcyclist responsible for the initial crash fled the scene with his bike, while the truck driver abandoned his vehicle and escaped.
The firefighter’s colleagues evacuated his remains in an official Federal Fire Service ambulance.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that a commercial motorcyclist riding against the approved one-way traffic at high speed collided with the firefighter. In the resulting confusion, an approaching Shacman truck (registration number: JJJ 919 YK) heavily laden with sand was unable to brake, leading to the fatal incident,” Taofiq said.
LASTMA handed the impounded truck over to law enforcement for full investigation and legal follow-up.
General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki extended condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of LASTMA’s support during this difficult time.
He also condemned the dangerous practice of riding against traffic in Lagos, highlighting the avoidable deaths and emotional trauma it causes.
Bakare-Oki urged all road users to obey directional signs and speed limits, stressing that compliance is a crucial civic responsibility that saves lives.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
