A fatal road accident involving a petrol tanker and a commercial motorcycle has claimed the lives of the bike rider and his passenger.
The accident, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) disclosed in a statement by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, occurred on Wednesday, 14 January, 2026, at Pokia Junction, in Araga, on the Epe–Ijebu Road in Lagos.
”Preliminary security findings disclosed that the commercial motorcyclist, who was conveying a male passenger was unlawfully traversing a prohibited route (one-way), in blatant contravention of existing traffic statutes when he was struck by the empty PMS tanker who was on a high speed. The violent impact proved fatal, resulting in the instantaneous death of both the rider and his passenger,” the statement revealed.
Following the tragic incident, LASTMA officials exhibited what Adebayo described as commendable professionalism, operational competence and swift emergency responsiveness, by swiftly mobilizing to the scene, adding that the tanker driver was immediately taken into custody.
According him, the affected area was decisively cordoned off, to avert secondary mishaps and guarantee public safety, while relevant security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), “were duly notified, in strict adherence to established emergency response protocols.”
The statement further hinted that the remains of the motorcyclist and his passenger, as well as the apprehended tanker driver, were formally handed over operatives of Noforija Police Division for thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.
However, in ensuring that traffic order was restored, a move that was aimed at forestalling congestion along the corridor, LASTMA officials expeditiously evacuated the tanker from the carriageway, thereby facilitating the seamless flow of vehicular movement within the affected axis.
Describing the incident as a sorrowful and sobering testament to the devastating repercussions of traffic law infractions, the Special Adviser to the state Governor on Transportation, Honourable Sola Giwa, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
He, consequently, strongly warned commercial motorcyclists and all road users against habitual disobedience to traffic regulations, particularly the perilous practice of one-way driving and the reckless struggle for right of way with heavier vehicles.
“This unfortunate loss of lives was entirely avoidable. Had the motorcyclist remained within his lawful lane and observed a moderate speed, this fatal incident would not have occurred,” the Special Adviser remarked.
He further reaffirmed the unwavering resolve of the Lagos State Government to intensify traffic law enforcement while safeguarding lives and property across the state, urging all road users to cultivate responsible driving conduct and uncompromising adherence to traffic regulations.
”LASTMA once again implores the motoring public to regard traffic laws not as instruments of punishment, but as indispensable safeguards instituted to protect human lives and ensure harmonious coexistence on Lagos roads,” the statement added.
Source: Felix Mordi Facebook page
