Cyclist runs into moving  truck while receiving phone call, killed

A cyclist who was attempting a manoeuvre from Kudirat Abiola Way towards ‘Radio’ along Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja, Lagos on Sunday collided with a moving truck and was killed instantly.

The cyclist was said to have rammed against the loaded truck with the number plate, BDG 610 YA, lost control and was thrown against the pavement where he hit his head. He was reported to have died instantly.

Eyewitnesses said the cyclist was engaged in a phone conversation using an earpiece at the time of the incident, resulting in a fatal lapse in concentration on the busy expressway.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority responded to the incident, securing the area to safeguard other road users and to maintain seamless traffic flow.

Officers from Alausa Police Division were also said to have responded swiftly.

Adebayo Taofiq, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, confirmed the incident in a statement, adding, “While managing vehicular movement around the accident site, LASTMA officials subsequently transferred custody of the deceased’s remains to the police, who conveyed the body to the General Hospital mortuary in Ikeja.”

Extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, underscored the critical importance of unwavering adherence to road safety protocols.

He particularly admonished cyclists to ensure they are appropriately outfitted with all requisite protective gear and to eschew all forms of distractions, including contesting the right of way with motorized traffic.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time. We earnestly urge all cyclists to prioritize their personal safety and that of fellow road users by remaining fully alert and suitably equipped at all times while traversing public roads,” the LASTMA boss said.