The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has renewed its call for pedestrians to strictly use designated footbridges following a fatal accident over the weekend at Ojota.
EpeInsights reports that a pedestrian was killed while attempting to cross the Ojota expressway on foot, rather than using the nearby overhead pedestrian bridge.
The victim was struck by a moving lorry, which subsequently lost control during an attempted escape and collided with a Toyota Corolla, bearing registration number LND 905 HN.
LASTMA officials responded swiftly to the incident, apprehending the driver and securing the vehicle. Both were handed over to officers at the Ogudu Police Division for further investigation.
The deceased was removed from the scene and handed over to the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) for appropriate handling.
In an official statement issued by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the incident as both tragic and preventable.
Bakare-Oki emphasized the dangers of crossing expressways outside designated pedestrian points.
“It is both reckless and unlawful to ignore pedestrian bridges provided by the government,” he said.
“These structures are built to save lives, and failure to use them puts individuals and other road users in serious danger.”
Bakare-Oki also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reiterated LASTMA’s commitment to ensuring safety across Lagos roads. He urged the public to obey traffic rules and use available pedestrian infrastructure at all times.
“The Lagos State Government has invested significantly in ensuring pedestrian safety,” he said. “We urge every road user to act responsibly and help prevent further loss of life.”
The agency is calling for increased public cooperation in promoting a culture of safety and vigilance on all roads in the state.
