The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the death of a cyclist following a fatal collision involving a DAF articulated truck beneath the LASUTH Bridge, along the Airport Road corridor in Ikeja.
Preliminary findings indicated that the incident occurred as both the cyclist and the heavy-duty truck, approaching from the Maryland axis, attempted to navigate the roundabout under the bridge at about the same time.
In the process, the cyclist reportedly failed to maintain a safe distance from the moving truck, leading to a violent impact that crushed the cyclist and caused instant death.
LASTMA officials who were on traffic control duty at the scene swiftly intervened, preventing further chaos and apprehending the truck driver, who allegedly attempted to flee to avoid responsibility.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to officers of the Ikeja Police Division for investigation and possible prosecution in accordance with the law.
To prevent secondary accidents and ease traffic flow, officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit were mobilised to evacuate the remains of the deceased from the carriageway, restoring order at the busy corridor.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, expressed deep sadness over the loss of life and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
He offered prayers for strength and comfort for the bereaved, describing the incident as avoidable.
Giwa also issued a stern warning to cyclists and commercial motorcyclists to prioritise safety at all times, urging them to comply strictly with traffic regulations.
He cautioned against the use of highways, expressways and other high-speed routes by cyclists, noting that such corridors significantly increase exposure to fatal risks.
According to him, the Lagos State Government has consistently intensified public sensitisation through jingles and documentary campaigns to educate cyclists and other vulnerable road users on the importance of restricting their movements to inner roads.
He added that the directive equally applies to skateboard users and other non-motorised road users.
The state government, through LASTMA, reiterated its commitment to strict traffic enforcement, sustained public enlightenment and the protection of all road users, while calling on motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to act responsibly and adhere to traffic laws to prevent avoidable tragedies.
