Fatal Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash Kills Four as Gridlock Strands Commuters for Over 10 Hours
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has recently been the scene of significant challenges, including a severe 10-hour traffic gridlock and a fatal accident that claimed four lives. The crash, attributed to speeding and fatigue, prompted a swift FRSC response amidst widespread commuter frustration.
Motorists and commuters on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway faced severe disruption after a gridlock left travellers stranded for more than 10 hours, with some unable to reach their destinations and others getting home late.
The prolonged standstill caused widespread frustration as commuters endured hours with little or no movement on both sides of the highway. The disruption was compounded by a fatal crash near Straight Gate School in Ipara Remo, further highlighting the challenges faced by travellers along the major highway.
The crash occurred at about4 a.m. on Wednesday, September 16, and involved a blue Mitsubishi Canter, registration number FGE 753 XA, and an ash-coloured HOWO truck, registration number T-695 KT, according to the Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The FRSC spokesperson, Chief Route Commander Afolabi Odunsi, said eight people were involved, with four male adults killed, one injured and three escaping unhurt. Preliminary findings identified speed violation, fatigue and wrongful overtaking as the major causes, with the Mitsubishi reportedly travelling at high speed before attempting to overtake the moving truck and colliding with it.
The FRSC rescue team received the report at 4:33 a.m. and arrived at the scene at 4:39 a.m., recording a six-minute response time. The injured victim was taken to Victory Hospital, Ogere, for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited at the FOS Mortuary, Ipara.
The damaged vehicles were subsequently handed over to the Police Motor Traffic Division, Isara Division, for further investigation and necessary action.