The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed a tragic road accident that claimed the life of a dispatch rider in the Motorways area of Lagos, inward Estate, Alapere.
According to a statement issued by the agency, the incident occurred when an empty tanker belonging to NIPCO (registration number TTN-776ZQ), reportedly moving at high speed, collided with a dispatch rider operating in the area. The impact of the crash resulted in the instant death of the rider.
The sudden tragedy triggered tension at the scene as a group of dispatch riders gathered in anger and attempted to attack the tanker driver.
However, LASTMA officials who arrived swiftly at the location intervened to prevent the situation from escalating into further violence.
The agency noted that its operatives were able to safely rescue the tanker driver from the enraged crowd.
The driver, who sustained injuries during the incident, was handed over to officials of the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) and taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
To restore order, police officers from the Alausa Division were also deployed to the scene, helping to disperse the crowd and secure the area.
The damaged tanker and the wreckage of the motorcycle were later handed over to the police for further investigation.
Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the family of the deceased rider, describing the loss as painful and unfortunate.
He urged motorists, especially tanker drivers, to strictly adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations to prevent avoidable deaths on Lagos roads.
Bakare-Oki emphasised that reckless driving continues to be a major cause of fatal road crashes in the state, calling for greater caution and responsibility among all road users.
“This unfortunate incident underscores the need for constant vigilance and strict adherence to road safety rules. Every road user has a duty to protect lives through responsible behaviour on the roads,” he stated.
Authorities have confirmed that the matter has been handed over to the police for a full investigation and possible prosecution.
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