Multiple crashes cause gridlock on Lagos-Ibadan expressway, motorists stranded
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Multiple accidents on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway caused significant gridlock and stranded motorists on Friday.
- One fatality and two injuries were reported, with rescue operations ongoing to clear the affected Kara Bridge section.
- Authorities advised drivers to use alternative routes due to the extensive delays.
Motorists faced severe disruptions on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Friday after multiple crashes on the Kara Bridge section led to extensive gridlock. The accidents, occurring in the early hours, resulted in at least one death and two injuries, leaving many drivers stranded.
A total of seven adult males were involved in the crash. One person lost his life, one sustained injuries, while five others escaped unhurt.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the incidents, advising drivers to seek alternative routes. The first crash, involving five articulated trucks and a Toyota Sienna, occurred around 12:05 a.m. on the outbound lane towards Ibadan. Excessive speed and loss of control were cited as causes. One male fatality was reported, with the body trapped under a truck, requiring heavy-duty equipment for recovery.
While rescue efforts for the first crash were underway, a second accident happened around 3:15 a.m. on the inbound carriageway towards Lagos. This involved a commercial bus that suffered brake failure, causing serious injury to the driver. FRSC emergency teams rescued the injured driver and transported him for medical treatment.
Due to the position of one of the heavily loaded trucks, the body of the deceased is trapped underneath the vehicle, necessitating the deployment of heavy-duty recovery equipment before evacuation can be completed.
FRSC officials, alongside other emergency responders, worked to clear the wreckage and restore traffic flow. The Lagos Sector Commander expressed sympathy to the victims' families and urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officials. Drivers heading towards Ibadan were advised to use the Ikorodu-Sagamu route, and those heading into Lagos to consider the Lekki-Epe Expressway.
Motorists are strongly advised to use alternative routes where possible to avoid delays from the Kara-Ojodu Berger corridor until recovery operations are concluded.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.