A peaceful Sunday morning in Lagos turned tragic on June 22, 2025, as a 40-foot container-laden truck lost control and crushed a commercial minibus along Old Ipaja Road, near Agbotikuyo. The devastating accident left one person dead and three others miraculously rescued alive.
Where It Happened
The fatal crash occurred on Old Ipaja Road, a heavily trafficked route in Agege, Lagos. According to eyewitnesses, the truck was headed towards Iyana Ipaja when it suddenly lost control and its container tipped over.
What Caused the Accident?
Initial reports from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) suggest that the truck—bearing registration number MUS 729 XY—suffered a brake failure, causing the driver to lose control.
As the truck veered off course, its massive container detached and fell directly onto a moving minibus, crushing the vehicle and trapping passengers inside.
Emergency Response
Thanks to swift action by emergency services:
Three passengers—two women and a man—were rescued alive and unhurt.
Unfortunately, the minibus driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
Agencies involved in the rescue included:
LASTMA
LASEMA
LASAMBUS
The Nigeria Police Force
Traffic was immediately diverted to Shofunde and Olufunlayo Streets to ease gridlock and facilitate rescue efforts.
Driver Arrested After Attempted Escape
The truck driver reportedly attempted to flee the scene but was swiftly apprehended by LASTMA operatives. He was later handed over to officers at Elere Police Station and Area ‘G’ Police Command for further investigation.
Government’s Reaction
Hon. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life and emphasized that the accident was preventable.
“Most of these unfortunate incidents are avoidable with proper and routine vehicle checks—especially brake systems on trucks,” he said.
He assured the public that the government will intensify efforts to enforce safety regulations, particularly on containerized and heavy-duty vehicles.
Conclusion
This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the urgent need for road safety enforcement and routine mechanical inspections—especially for large, container-laden vehicles. While quick emergency response saved three lives, it highlights the dangers lurking on our roads daily.
The Lagos State Government has promised more proactive measures—but safety starts with drivers, vehicle owners, and regulatory compliance.
