Eight Killed in Multiple-Truck Crash on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Near Kara Bridge

At least eight people have died and several others were injured in a tragic multiple-truck crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near Kara Bridge, outward Lagos.

The accident, which happened early Thursday around the Berger axis, involved several heavy-duty trucks.

Witnesses said one of the trucks plunged into the Kara River, while two others collided and caught fire, causing panic and a massive traffic jam on the busy highway.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that a truck and a container-laden trailer went up in flames, while another truck carrying cartons of biscuits spilled its load across the road. Yet another trailer hit the bridge barrier and fell into the river.

According to LASTMA, “Eight casualties have been recorded. Recovery and evacuation efforts are ongoing, and traffic is backed up along the Ogunnusi section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Officers and emergency responders are on the ground.”

Reports also indicate that a police officer, a driver’s assistant, and two other individuals were among the dead, while a motorboy and one other person sustained injuries.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olorundare Jimoh, confirmed that five articulated vehicles were involved in the crash, adding that three injured victims were taken to the hospital.

He said preliminary findings suggest the crash was caused by brake failure.

“We have a case of a multiple accident, which is still under investigation.

“Unfortunately, we lost a police inspector,” the CP told Channels Television.

“All those responsible for the accident will be prosecuted,” he added.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were also at the scene to manage traffic and coordinate rescue operations.

This tragic incident came barely a day after another collision between two heavy-duty vehicles along the Otedola Bridge inward Berger-Ojodu corridor in Lagos.

LASTMA said the crash, involving a 14-tyre Scania truck loaded with wheat and a 6-tyre mini-truck carrying cartons of Gala sausage rolls, happened when both drivers reportedly competed for the right of way, leading to a violent impact.