Driver arrested as tanker crushes motorcycle rider, passenger

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has arrested the driver of an empty petrol tanker following a grievous road traffic accident that resulted in the death of a commercial motorcyclist and his passenger at Pokia Junction, inward Araga, along the Epe–Ijebu Road, Epe, Lagos.

Adebayo Taofiq, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA in a statement on Wednesday explained that preliminary security findings disclosed that the commercial motorcyclist, who was conveying a male passenger was unlawfully traversing a prohibited route (one-way), in contravention of existing traffic statutes when he was struck by the empty PMS tanker who was on a high speed.

“The violent impact proved fatal, resulting in the instantaneous death of both the rider and his passenger,” The spokesman said.

He added that LASTMA operatives promptly mobilised to the scene of the occurrence.

He said, “The tanker driver was immediately taken into custody, while the affected area was decisively cordoned off to avert secondary mishaps and guarantee public safety. Relevant security agency including the FRSC were duly notified in strict adherence to established emergency response protocols.

“Thereafter, the remains of the deceased motorcyclist and his passenger together with the apprehended tanker driver were formally transferred to officers of the Nigeria Police Force attached to the Noforija Police Division for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.

“In a deliberate move to restore traffic order and forestall congestion along the corridor, LASTMA officials expeditiously evacuated the tanker from the carriageway, thereby facilitating the seamless flow of vehicular movement within the affected axis.”

The Special Adviser to the Governor Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, described the the occurrence as a “sorrowful and sobering testament to the devastating repercussions of traffic law infractions.”

He admonished commercial motorcyclists and all road users against habitual disobedience to traffic regulations, particularly the perilous practice of one-way driving and the reckless struggle for right of way with heavier vehicles.

“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and observed a moderate speed, this fatal incident would not have occurred,” the Special Adviser said.

LASTMA implores the motoring public to regard traffic laws not as instruments of punishment, but as indispensable safeguards instituted to protect human lives and ensure harmonious coexistence on Lagos roads.