A dark cloud descended on Ikorodu on Saturday following a ghastly multi-vehicle collision that claimed the lives of three students of the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (Lasustech), Ikorodu, leaving seven others critically injured.
The tragic crash occurred at Powerline Junction, before Aleje, inward Ikorodu Roundabout, when a tipper truck heavily laden with sand reportedly suffered brake failure while speeding, ramming into a Toyota Corolla, an MPV bus, and four tricycles in a devastating chain collision.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and anguish as bystanders rushed to assist before emergency responders arrived. Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (Lastma), in a swift and coordinated rescue effort, stormed the scene to prevent further accidents and provide emergency aid to victims.
According to Lastma’s Director Of Public Affairs And Enlightenment, Adebayo Taofiq, the rescue operation was reinforced by personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps (Frsc) from the Odongunyan Division and officers from the Shagamu Police Division.
“Seven injured victims were quickly conveyed to nearby medical facilities, while the remains of the three deceased students were respectfully taken to the General Hospital, Ikorodu Mortuary,” Taofiq confirmed.
The General Manager Of Lastma, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the bereaved families and praying for divine comfort in their time of loss.
He lamented that the tragedy was “entirely avoidable,” citing overspeeding, recklessness, and poor vehicle maintenance as recurring causes of fatal road crashes across the state.
“Commercial and heavy-duty vehicle operators must take responsibility adhere to speed limits, conduct regular mechanical checks, and maintain discipline behind the wheel,” Bakare-Oki warned.
He reaffirmed Lastma’s unwavering commitment to road safety, traffic discipline, and emergency response across Lagos, stressing that the agency will continue to enforce strict compliance to prevent such needless tragedies.
All wrecked vehicles have since been cleared from the scene to restore free traffic flow in the area.