One person has been confirmed dead following a multiple-vehicle crash involving articulated trucks at Otedola Bridge inward Secretariat on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, causing severe traffic disruption and triggering an emergency multi-agency response.

The main crash involved two heavy-duty trailers, one carrying sand and the other loaded with granite, which reportedly collided while competing for right of way. The impact trapped the driver of the sand-laden trailer, who sustained fatal injuries.

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Rescue Team, who were on routine patrol at the time, responded promptly and extricated the victim before handing him over to the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS). He was rushed to the General Hospital, Ikeja, where he was confirmed dead. The driver of the second trailer was rescued alive and did not sustain any injuries.

In a related incident, another trailer fully loaded with flour overturned about 50 metres away from the initial crash site, further worsening traffic congestion along the already affected corridor.

Security operatives from the Alausa Police Division were deployed to the scene to maintain order, secure the area and support rescue and recovery operations.

The combined incidents reportedly obstructed nearly 80 per cent of the roadway, forcing traffic authorities to divert motorists travelling into Lagos from the Mowe, Kara Bridge and Redemption Camp axis through the Ojodu–Olole route, connecting Agidingbi, Coca-Cola, Secretariat and 7-Up towards Gbagada and Ojota.

Speaking on the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, described the crashes as “deeply regrettable and largely preventable,” attributing them to impatience, indiscipline and failure to yield by drivers, particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles.

He stressed that strict compliance with traffic regulations and mutual courtesy among motorists are critical to preventing avoidable loss of lives, while extending condolences to the family of the deceased driver.

In a statement, Adebayo Taofiq, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, said the incidents underscored the dangers of reckless driving and disregard for traffic rules on major highways.

He said, preliminary findings indicate that impatience and a struggle for right of way by articulated vehicle drivers led to this unfortunate loss of life. LASTMA urges all motorists, especially truck and trailer operators, to exercise caution, professionalism and strict adherence to traffic laws to prevent needless tragedies.

He also commended the swift and coordinated response of LASTMA operatives, LASAMBUS personnel and security agencies for effectively managing the emergency and restoring order on the expressway.