Chaos erupted on the busy Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Thursday afternoon when a mini truck loaded with tomatoes suddenly lost control and slammed into several vehicles.
The accident, which happened around noon, was triggered by brake failure, according to eyewitnesses. The truck veered off its lane and rammed into oncoming traffic, causing significant damage to multiple cars but miraculously resulting in no fatalities.
One family in particular had a close call. Trapped in an SUV that bore the brunt of the impact, they managed to escape unhurt, a moment of relief amid the panic that gripped motorists on the notorious stretch of road.
Officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) quickly arrived at the scene to manage the situation, clear the wreckage, and restore traffic flow, which was heavily disrupted for hours in both directions.Otedola Bridge has long been one of Lagos' most dangerous hotspots, plagued by recurring accidents often involving heavy vehicles.
Brake failures, poor maintenance, and the bridge's steep gradient are frequently cited as contributing factors. Over the years, it has seen devastating incidents, including a deadly tanker explosion in 2018 that claimed lives and destroyed dozens of vehicles, as well as multiple fatal crashes involving trucks in recent times.
Road safety experts and commuters alike continue to call for tougher regulations on commercial vehicles, mandatory inspections, and infrastructure improvements to curb the cycle of mishaps on this critical corridor. Thursday's incident serves as yet another stark reminder of the risks faced daily by thousands navigating the expressway.
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