Two die as trucks collide on Oshodi–Apapa Expressway

Two people have died following a collision between two 40-foot container trucks on the Oshodi–Apapa Expressway in Lagos, officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have confirmed.

The fatal accident, which occurred on the busy expressway that serves as a critical link between Lagos port facilities and other parts of the city, has once again drawn attention to the persistent safety challenges on the corridor, particularly involving heavy-duty trucks.

LASTMA officials who responded to the scene confirmed that the two victims died on impact from injuries sustained in the collision. Emergency responders worked to evacuate the bodies and clear the wreckage from the road to prevent further accidents and restore traffic flow on the heavily congested route.

Details about the exact circumstances that led to the collision remain under investigation, though preliminary reports suggest that one of the trucks may have lost control before crashing into the other vehicle. Mechanical failure, brake malfunction, or driver error are among the potential causes being examined.

The Oshodi–Apapa Expressway has long been identified as one of Lagos State’s most dangerous roads, with frequent accidents involving articulated trucks transporting containers to and from the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. The road’s poor condition, combined with the high volume of heavy-duty vehicles, creates a hazardous environment for motorists.

LASTMA officials have called on truck drivers and owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before deployment, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance, particularly of braking systems and other critical safety components. They also urged drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits, especially when navigating the expressway’s challenging terrain.

The accident caused significant traffic disruption on the expressway, with motorists experiencing delays as emergency responders and traffic management personnel worked to clear the scene. LASTMA deployed officers to manage traffic flow and create alternative routes for vehicles attempting to navigate the area.

This latest fatality adds to the growing toll of lives lost on Lagos roads due to accidents involving heavy-duty trucks. Road safety advocates have repeatedly called for more stringent enforcement of regulations governing the operation of articulated vehicles in the state.

The Lagos State Government has been working to address the challenges on the Oshodi–Apapa corridor through road rehabilitation projects and traffic management initiatives, but progress has been slow, and the road remains in poor condition in several sections.

Transport unions and logistics operators have also been urged to prioritize driver training and vehicle maintenance to reduce the frequency of accidents. Many heavy-duty truck accidents have been attributed to driver fatigue, inadequate training, and the use of vehicles that are not properly maintained.

The families of the deceased are being contacted by authorities, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies are expected to conduct thorough investigations to determine liability and recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies.