A pedestrian was killed over the weekend in a tragic accident along the Ojota Expressway, prompting the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to issue a strong warning against the unlawful crossing of highways.
In a statement released on Sunday by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Adebayo Taofiq, the victim was struck by a lorry while attempting to cross the busy Ojota main carriageway, bypassing the designated pedestrian bridge.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the lorry driver, in an attempt to flee the scene after the fatal collision, lost control and crashed into a Toyota Corolla with registration number LND 905 HN.
“The Lagos State Government has made significant investments in pedestrian bridges, and it is the responsibility of all road users to make proper use of them,” said LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki.
According to the statement, LASTMA officers responded promptly, apprehending the fleeing driver and securing both the suspect and the vehicle. They were subsequently handed over to the Ogudu Police Division for further investigation.
The deceased’s remains were later transferred to officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit, following standard protocol.
Describing the incident as “tragic and entirely preventable,” Bakare-Oki extended condolences to the victim’s family and reiterated the necessity of using pedestrian infrastructure designed for public safety.
“It is both unlawful and dangerously reckless to ignore safety measures such as pedestrian bridges,” he said, emphasizing that such behavior endangers not only the individual but also other road users.
He called for heightened public awareness and collective responsibility, stating, “Disregard for traffic safety protocols puts everyone at risk. Preventing further avoidable tragedies requires vigilance and compliance from all.”
LASTMA concluded by urging members of the public to prioritize safety and avoid shortcuts that could result in loss of life.
