By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
A Federal Fire Service officer has been confirmed dead
following a fatal road crash near the Trade Fair–inward Abule-Ado corridor of Lagos State.
The officer, who was deployed within the Trade Fair Complex, was struck by a commercial motorcyclist (Okada rider) reportedly travelling against the approved direction of traffic at high speed.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has expressed heartfelt condolences over the tragic loss.
Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, explained that preliminary findings showed the motorcyclist, while riding “one-way” at excessive speed, collided with the firefighter as he attempted to cross the expressway.
“In the ensuing confusion, a Shacman truck (registration number: JJJ 919 YK), heavily laden with sand, was unable to brake effectively, leading to the fatal incident,” he stated.
LASTMA personnel stationed around the Trade Fair axis reportedly responded swiftly, securing the accident scene to ensure public safety.
With assistance from concerned passers-by, officials protected the immediate area and alerted the Onireke Police Division. Police operatives arrived promptly to commence investigations and provide additional security.
According to LASTMA, the Okada rider fled the scene with his motorcycle before he could be apprehended, while the truck driver also abandoned the vehicle and escaped.
Colleagues from the Federal Fire Service evacuated the officer’s remains using an official ambulance deployed from the Trade Fair Complex.
Following proper scene management, the impounded truck was handed over to security authorities for a detailed investigation and legal action.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and fortitude during their painful loss. He further assured them of the agency’s full support at this sorrowful time.
Mr Bakare-Oki decried the continued and dangerous practice of driving against traffic across Lagos, warning that such reckless behaviour has caused avoidable deaths and severe trauma to families.
He urged all road users to obey directional signs and adhere strictly to approved speed limits, emphasising that safeguarding human life is a shared responsibility.
LASTMA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting road safety, enforcing traffic regulations, and fostering a disciplined motoring culture throughout the state.
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