Two Killed in Midnight Collision of Container Trucks on Oshodi–Apapa Expressway
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
Two persons have died following a late-night collision involving two fully laden 40-foot container trucks at Cele inward, along the Mile 2 axis of the Oshodi–Apapa Expressway.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday, describing the crash as catastrophic.
According to the agency, the collision claimed the life of one of the truck drivers, identified with registration number T-392 LA, and a suspected miscreant whose presence within the vicinity of the articulated vehicles could not be immediately determined at the time of rescue operations.
LASTMA said the impact of the crash left the driver severely trapped inside the cabin of his truck, requiring a technical extrication by its Rescue and Recovery Team. The body of the second victim was later recovered from beneath one of the trucks after an extensive search conducted under strict safety procedures.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), whose technical support facilitated the recovery process.
Security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, attached to the Ilasa Police Division, secured the scene and maintained order while ensuring the preservation of evidence.
The State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit subsequently evacuated the remains of the victims, allowing for the gradual restoration of traffic along the busy logistics corridor.
Following the recovery exercise, LASTMA handed over the case to the Ilasa Police Division for a comprehensive investigation to determine the immediate and remote causes of the crash.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and described the tragedy as a stark reminder of the risks associated with high-density freight routes.
He urged operators of articulated vehicles to adhere strictly to speed limits and traffic regulations, particularly during nocturnal operations, which he said require heightened vigilance and proper warning mechanisms to prevent avoidable accidents.
The agency also advised motorists to remain cautious, comply with traffic rules and promptly alert emergency responders when hazardous situations are observed on highways.
