LASTMA issues warning as lorry crùshes man to déath in Ojota

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a strong warning to the public following a tragic incident at Ojota, where a pedestrian was fatally struck by a lorry while attempting to cross the expressway illegally.

According to LASTMA, the fatal incident occurred when the pedestrian defied traffic safety rules and attempted to cross the Ojota expressway on foot instead of using the pedestrian bridge.

LASTMA officials at the scene, however, apprehended the fleeing driver, with the subsequently handed over to officers of the Ogudu Police Division for further investigation and legal action.

The deceased’s body has been handed over to officials from the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) by LASTMA operatives, in accordance with official protocols and with respect for the deceased’s dignity.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, however, expressed deep sympathy to the victim’s family, describing the incident as both tragic and entirely avoidable, while emphasising the importance of using the pedestrian infrastructure provided by the Lagos State Government.

This was contained in a statement on the agency’s X handle on Sunday, 4th of May 2025.

The statement partly reads:

“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a stern admonition to the public, particularly pedestrians, underscoring the imperative of strict adherence to the use of designated overhead pedestrian bridges.

“This advisory follows a grievous incident over the weekend, in which a pedestrian lost his life after being struck by a lorry while attempting to unlawfully cross the Ojota expressway on foot.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the fatal collision occurred as the lorry was transiting the Ojota main carriageway, where it encountered the pedestrian in breach of crossing regulations. In a futile bid to flee the scene, the lorry driver lost vehicular control and subsequently collided with a Toyota Corolla, identified by registration number LND 905 HN.

“LASTMA personnel, demonstrating commendable swiftness and efficiency, apprehended the fleeing driver and secured the vehicle. Both were handed over to operatives of the Ogudu Police Division for comprehensive investigation and appropriate legal action.

“In line with prescribed procedures, the remains of the deceased were respectfully transferred to officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) by LASTMA operatives, ensuring due diligence and dignity in the handling of the casualty.

“The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed profound condolences to the family of the deceased, lamenting the tragic and wholly preventable nature of the incident. He reiterated the Authority’s steadfast commitment to protecting human life and fostering a culture of safety on Lagos roads.” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>>