Fallen container crushes two dispatch riders to death in Lagos

Two dispatch riders have died after a 20-feet container fell on them during a collision involving two Mack trucks on Eko Bridge inward Alaka, Lagos, on Sunday.

The Lagos State Transport Management Agency in a statement by its spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, on Sunday noted that speeding was the primary cause of the accident.

According to Taofiq, the dispatch riders, with vehicle registration numbers T-10357 LA and KJA 107 XM were riding when the accident happened.

He said, “Preliminary findings suggest that the driver of one of the articulated trucks, reportedly driving at an excessive speed while allegedly dozing off, lost control of the vehicle.

“The truck then careened into another moving trucks ahead of it, triggering a violent impact.

“This collision led to the dislodgement of a 20-foot container from one of the trucks, which subsequently crushed two unsuspecting dispatch riders who were navigating the route at the time.

“Both victims were confirmed dead at the scene,” he said.

Taofiq stated that LASTMA officers, who were monitoring traffic under the Eko Bridge, quickly responded to the incident and rescued a severely injured truck driver.

He said the driver was rushed to a nearby hospital in a Lagos State Government ambulance for immediate medical care.

He noted that two truck drivers fled the scene, likely due to fear of consequences, and investigations are ongoing to track and apprehend them.

The spokesperson further said the affected area has been cordoned by LASTMA and has redirected traffic through Coastain Roundabout to prevent further incidents and ensure road safety.

LASTMA’s General Manager, Bakare-Oki, was said to have condoled with the families affected by the tragic incident.

He emphasised the importance of responsible driving, especially for articulated vehicle operators.