The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the tragic death of a commercial tricycle operator after a head-on collision with a one-way-driving SUV in the Oko-Afo area of Lagos.
According to a statement released on Sunday by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr Taofiq Adebayo, the incident was disclosed by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki.
The fatal crash occurred at Origan, Oko-Afo, along the Badagry Expressway. It involved a commercial tricycle with registration number MUS 716 QM and a Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC SUV bearing the custom license plate “OSUNFNKE.”
Preliminary investigations revealed that the SUV driver was travelling against traffic driving one-way from Ile-Epo towards Oko-Afo in clear violation of road safety laws. The reckless move resulted in a head-on collision with the oncoming tricycle, fatally injuring its operator. The tricycle driver reportedly suffered severe trauma, including a dislocated knee, and was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a shocking turn of events, the SUV driver abandoned both his vehicle and the victim’s body and fled the scene.
LASTMA officials swiftly secured the crash site and reported the incident to the Nigeria Police Force at Morogbo Division. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) later evacuated the victim’s body to the mortuary at Badagry General Hospital.
To ease traffic congestion, LASTMA removed both the damaged tricycle and SUV and handed them over to the police for further investigation and potential prosecution.
Mr. Bakare-Oki strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a grave threat to public safety and a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences of traffic lawlessness. He expressed deep sorrow over the avoidable loss of life and emphasized the need for all motorists to drive responsibly.
“This tragedy could have been avoided if the SUV driver had obeyed traffic regulations,” he said. “We urge all road users to respect traffic laws one life lost is one too many.”
He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, praying they find strength in this difficult time.
LASTMA reiterated its commitment to safer roads through continuous public education, active enforcement, and zero tolerance for reckless driving.
