Tragic Occurrence at Ojota: LASTMA Urges Strict Adherence to Designated Pedestrian Overpasses
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a strong advisory to the public, particularly pedestrians, emphasizing the critical importance of using designated overhead pedestrian bridges.
This appeal comes in the wake of a tragic incident over the weekend, in which a pedestrian lost his life after being struck by a lorry while attempting to unlawfully cross the Ojota expressway on foot.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the fatal collision occurred as the lorry was navigating the main carriageway at Ojota when it encountered the pedestrian who was crossing in violation of established safety regulations. In a failed attempt to flee the scene, the lorry driver lost control of the vehicle and subsequently collided with a Toyota Corolla bearing registration number LND 905 HN.
LASTMA personnel, responding swiftly and efficiently, apprehended the fleeing driver and secured the vehicle. Both were handed over to operatives of the Ogudu Police Division for a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.
In accordance with official protocols, LASTMA officers respectfully transferred the remains of the deceased to officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU), ensuring that due diligence and dignity were observed in handling the casualty.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, lamenting the tragic and entirely preventable nature of the incident. He reaffirmed the Authority’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting a culture of road safety in Lagos.
Mr. Bakare-Oki underscored the grave risks involved in crossing high-speed expressways at unauthorized points, describing such actions as both dangerous and irresponsible. “It is reckless and unlawful to ignore the infrastructural provisions made for pedestrian safety,” he stated.
“The Lagos State Government has made significant investments in pedestrian bridges, and it is incumbent upon all road users to make use of them responsibly.”
He further cautioned that non-compliance with traffic safety protocols not only endangers individual lives but also poses broader risks to public safety. He called for collective vigilance and strict adherence to safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
