Mother, Child Killed As Two Container Trucks Overturn In Lagos

A mother and her child have died after two heavily loaded container trucks overturned at Mile 2, near Freeman Market, inward Apapa, Lagos State.

The fatal incident occurred over the weekend, leaving the two victims trapped beneath the overturned trucks and their containerised cargoes.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, said its rescue and recovery personnel responded swiftly to the scene to coordinate evacuation efforts and manage traffic.

Following the incident, the affected road was temporarily cordoned off, while motorists were diverted through an adjoining service lane to reduce congestion and prevent further accidents.

LASTMA deployed a crane and a high-capacity tow vehicle to remove the overturned trucks and their containers during the recovery operation.

Officers of the Nigeria Police Force also provided security at the scene to ensure the operation proceeded in an orderly manner.

The remains of the deceased were subsequently conveyed to the Police Mortuary in Yaba for the necessary procedures.

Reacting to the tragedy, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed sadness over the deaths and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

Bakare-Oki called on relevant security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.

He said the investigation should establish whether mechanical faults, overloading, improper cargo distribution, driver negligence or other factors contributed to the incident.

The LASTMA boss also urged operators of articulated vehicles to comply strictly with road safety regulations, conduct regular mechanical inspections and ensure that containers are properly secured before embarking on journeys.

He further appealed to motorists, particularly commercial truck drivers, to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and adhere to safety standards to prevent avoidable loss of lives on Lagos roads.