The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says a 40-foot container truck lost control, overturned onto a commercial minibus and crashed into roadside structures, injuring a point of sale (POS) operator.

The general manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

Mr Bakare-Oki said the accident occurred along the service lane near the Police Tactical Team Station at Second Rainbow inward Oshodi, Lagos.

He said the accident occurred when the driver of the articulated truck, conveying a fully loaded 40-foot container, lost control.

“The truck overturned and fell on a commercial minibus while also crashing into nearby roadside shops.

“A female POS operator sustained severe injuries to both legs during the incident.

“The injured victim was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby hospital by officers of the Police Tactical Team for urgent medical attention,” he said.

He added that LASTMA operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene to manage traffic, secure the area and support rescue efforts in collaboration with security agencies.

The LASTMA boss said the truck driver was apprehended and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He noted that a recovery vehicle was deployed to remove the overturned truck and damaged bus, while police officers from the Orile-Iganmu Division commenced investigation into the incident.

Mr Bakare-Oki said in spite of the scale of the accident and damage recorded, traffic flow was largely maintained due to the prompt intervention of LASTMA officials.

He urged operators of articulated vehicles and logistics firms to ensure regular maintenance of their trucks, especially braking systems, to prevent accidents.

“Negligence in vehicle maintenance remains a major threat to lives and property on our roads. There is a need for motorists to adhere to safety standards,” he said. 

(NAN)