‘One-Way’ SUV Driver Kills Tricyclist, Flees Scene — LASTMA
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the death of a tricycle operator following a tragic crash caused by a driver traveling against traffic — a common but deadly violation known locally as “one-way.”
According to a statement released on Sunday by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, the agency’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed that the incident occurred at Origan, Oko-Afo, along the Badagry Expressway in Lagos.
The fatal collision involved a commercial tricycle bearing registration number MUS 716 QM and a Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC SUV with a customized plate “OSUNFNKE.”
Bakare-Oki said initial investigations revealed that the SUV was being driven in the wrong direction from Ile-Epo towards Oko-Afo when it rammed head-on into the tricycle, leaving the operator fatally injured.
“The operator suffered severe trauma, including a dislocated knee and was confirmed dead at the scene.
“In a shocking act of negligence, the SUV driver abandoned both his vehicle and the victim’s body and fled the scene,” he stated.
LASTMA officials quickly responded, securing the accident scene and notifying the Morogbo Division of the Nigeria Police Force. Police officers took over the investigation while the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) moved the deceased to the Badagry General Hospital mortuary.
The damaged vehicles were also cleared from the road by LASTMA to restore traffic flow and handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Condemning the incident, Bakare-Oki called it a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the urgent need for road discipline.
“This death highlights the deadly consequences of traffic lawlessness,” he said, adding that despite sensitization campaigns, many motorists continue to flout basic traffic rules.
He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to road safety through enforcement, education, and active traffic management.
Read also: Angry Youths, VeryDarkMan Lead Protest Over Yelwata Massacre
“This tragedy could’ve been avoided had the driver obeyed traffic signs and regulations,” Bakare-Oki stated.
He also extended condolences to the bereaved family and urged all motorists to drive responsibly and value human life over haste or convenience.
LASTMA concluded the statement with a firm reminder to road users: avoid illegal one-way driving and obey traffic laws to protect lives and maintain public safety.
