Traffic officials and emergency responders on Monday morning swiftly cleared a multiple-vehicle crash involving two articulated trucks and a private car along the Gbagada section of the Oworonshoki-Apapa Expressway, preventing what could have become a major traffic gridlock.

The accident occurred near The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) inward Gbagada, where two fully loaded articulated trucks and a private sedan collided, obstructing a section of one of Lagos’ busiest highways during the morning rush hour.

Following the incident, personnel of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the agency’s Rescue and Recovery Unit were deployed to the scene to coordinate traffic and remove the damaged vehicles.

LASTMA officials immediately cordoned off the affected area and diverted motorists through alternative routes while heavy-duty recovery vehicles worked to evacuate the trucks and the damaged car from the expressway.

The prompt intervention helped minimise traffic congestion and restore the free flow of vehicles along the corridor.

The cause of the accident had not been officially determined at the time of filing this report. However, investigators are expected to examine factors including possible mechanical failure, excessive speed and traffic violations.

Commenting on the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, urged motorists, particularly operators of articulated vehicles, to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on any journey.

He stressed the importance of routine maintenance, especially regular inspections of braking systems, tyres and steering components, noting that proper vehicle maintenance remains critical to preventing road crashes.

Bakare-Oki also advised drivers to obey traffic regulations and exercise caution on major highways to reduce accidents and improve road safety.

The latest crash adds to concerns over the increasing number of accidents involving heavy-duty vehicles on Lagos highways, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of vehicle safety standards and traffic regulations.