Newly wedded couple escape death in Third Mainland Bridge Accident

18 victims were successfully rescued by operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in collaboration with emergency response agencies, from a severe vehicular accident on the Third Mainland Bridge near Ilaje, heading towards Iyana Oworonsoki.

A newly wedded couple returning to the mainland after their wedding ceremony at the Ikoyi Marriage Registry were among those rescued.

The collision involved a mini truck (AGL 22 YE) and a commercial LT bus (BFG 204 XF). The bus, reportedly speeding, developed a brake failure on top speed and crashed into the mini truck, which had slowed down due to mechanical issues.

Sixteen passengers in the rear of the LT bus, including 11 women and fve men, whonsustained significant injuries were rushed to the Lagos State Trauma and Emergency Centre on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, while two of the passangers in the front of the bus were trapped in the wreckage and suffered severe limb fractures. It took the combined efforts of LASTMA officials, emergency responders, and bystanders to remove them, and later taken to Gbagada General Hospital for specialised treatment.

The Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASABUS) and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit (LRU) coordinated the swift evacuation of the injured. Law enforcement officers from Alonge Police Station and operatives of the Lagos State Task Force also ensured security and order during the rescue operations.

While expressing sympathy for the victims and wished them a speedy recovery, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki stressed the critical importance of observing speed limits and ensuring vehicle maintenance, particularly brake systems, to prevent accidents.

He also highlighted LASTMA’s intensified public awareness campaigns, led by its Female Elite Corps, to educate motorists—especially commercial bus drivers—on safe driving practices during the festive season and beyond.