A mother and her child have died after two heavily loaded container trucks overturned at Mile 2, near Freeman Market, inward Apapa, Lagos, over the weekend.
The victims were trapped beneath the overturned trucks and their cargoes, suffering fatal injuries, according to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
In a statement, the agency said its rescue and recovery personnel responded to the scene to evacuate the victims, secure the road and prevent further accidents.
The entire roadway was temporarily cordoned off, while motorists were diverted through an adjoining service lane to ease congestion and maintain safety.
LASTMA deployed a crane and a heavy-duty tow vehicle to remove the overturned trucks and their containers.
Police officers also provided security during the recovery operation.
The remains of the deceased were subsequently taken to the police mortuary in Yaba for the necessary procedures.
LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki expressed sorrow over the deaths and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.
He described the incident as an immeasurable human tragedy and called for a thorough investigation to determine what caused the trucks to overturn.
Bakare-Oki said investigators should establish whether mechanical faults, excessive loading, improper cargo distribution, driver negligence or other factors contributed to the crash.
He also urged truck operators to conduct regular vehicle inspections, secure their cargo properly and comply with road safety regulations.
“The preservation of human life remains paramount; motorists, especially commercial truck operators, must exercise heightened vigilance, ensure the roadworthiness of their vehicles and adhere uncompromisingly to prescribed safety standards,” he said.
The incident adds to concerns over the dangers posed by container-laden trucks on Lagos roads.
Comments
Add a comment