A newlywed couple was among 18 people injured in a serious multi-vehicle accident on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos on Saturday. The couple, who had just tied the knot and were returning from the Ikoyi Marriage Registry, were caught in the collision, which also involved 16 other passengers.
According to a statement from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the accident was caused by a brake failure on a commercial LT bus. The bus, which was reportedly speeding, lost control and slammed into a mini truck that was moving slowly due to its own mechanical issues. The collision occurred near Ilaje, as the vehicles were heading towards Iyana Oworonsoki on the bridge.
LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, confirmed that the crash involved two vehicles: a mini truck with the registration number ‘AGL 22 YE’ and the LT bus with the number plate ‘BFG 204 XF.’ The LT bus, which had 16 passengers seated in the rear, was traveling at excessive speed when its brakes failed, causing it to ram into the mini truck.
The rear of the LT bus bore the brunt of the impact, leaving 16 of its passengers—comprising 11 women and 5 men—with serious injuries. They were quickly evacuated by emergency responders and rushed to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre, located near the Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, for immediate medical care.
Two additional passengers were trapped in the wreckage of the LT bus and sustained severe injuries. Emergency personnel from LASTMA, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and other first responders worked tirelessly to free them from the wreckage, and they were subsequently transported to Gbagada General Hospital for further treatment.
The incident prompted a response from LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, who expressed deep sympathy for the victims and wished them a swift recovery. In a statement, Bakare-Oki emphasized the critical importance of vehicle maintenance, particularly the braking system, and urged drivers to adhere to speed limits to prevent such accidents.
“Vehicle owners and commercial bus operators must prioritize regular vehicle inspections to ensure that their braking systems and other critical components are in good working order,” said Bakare-Oki. “We are also intensifying our safety campaigns, particularly through our Female Elite Corps, to promote safe driving practices and help reduce accidents, especially as the festive season approaches.”
Emergency responders, including LASTMA personnel, the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), and the Nigeria Police Force, were commended for their swift and coordinated efforts in evacuating the injured and restoring order to the busy bridge.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder to all road users in Lagos to be vigilant, maintain their vehicles, and drive responsibly. Authorities have reiterated the need for continued public education on road safety as the city faces an increase in traffic volume during the holiday season.
