LASTMA nabs tanker driver over fatal hit-and-run in Ikeja

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has arrested a tanker driver who allegedly fled after knocking down and killing a commercial delivery motorcycle rider in Lagos.

The incident occurred along Kodesho Road, opposite MRS Filling Station, inward Awolowo Way/Oba Akran in the Maryland-Ikeja area of Lagos.

LASTMA disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the fatal crash involved a fully loaded tanker with registration number T-19089LA, conveying 33-litre groundnut oil.

According to the agency, the tanker struck and fatally crushed the delivery rider, who died instantly.

The agency said the driver attempted to escape without stopping to assist the victim or alert the relevant authorities.

However, following a distress call, LASTMA officers immediately launched a chase, intercepted the fleeing tanker and arrested the driver before he could evade arrest.

The statement added that the suspect and the tanker were handed over to the State Traffic Department, STD, Area ‘F’ Police Command, Ikeja, for further investigation and possible prosecution in line with the law.

LASTMA also said its officers secured the accident scene, managed traffic and coordinated emergency operations to allow relevant agencies carry out their duties while ensuring the free flow of vehicles along Kodesho Road.

“Fellow delivery riders at the scene promptly contacted the deceased’s family members and offered heartfelt condolences while expressing profound grief over the tragic loss of their colleague,” the statement said.  

Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, sympathised with the bereaved family, describing the tragedy as heartbreaking and avoidable.

He appealed to operators of articulated vehicles, tankers and other heavy-duty trucks to always exercise professionalism, remain vigilant and obey traffic regulations.

Bakare-Oki stressed that reckless driving, speeding and fleeing the scene of an accident are serious offences that put innocent lives at risk and attract legal consequences.

He also reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to working closely with the Nigeria Police Force and other emergency response agencies to ensure prompt incident management, protect lives and maintain smooth traffic flow across the state.

The agency urged members of the public to report road crashes, traffic emergencies and other traffic-related incidents through LASTMA’s toll-free emergency hotline for immediate response.