The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has reported the death of a commercial tricycle operator after a head-on collision with an SUV driving against traffic along the Badagry Expressway.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, the agency’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the incident occurred at Origan, Oko-Afo axis.

The fatal crash involved a tricycle with registration number MUS 716 QM and a Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC SUV bearing a custom plate “OSUNFNKE.” Preliminary investigations revealed that the SUV was driving one-way from Ile-Epo toward Oko-Afo, in clear violation of traffic laws.

The reckless act resulted in a head-on collision, inflicting severe injuries on the tricycle operator, including a dislocated knee. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a disturbing turn, the SUV driver reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled, leaving behind the lifeless body of the victim.

LASTMA officers swiftly secured the area and alerted the Morogbo Division of the Nigeria Police Force. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) subsequently moved the victim’s body to the mortuary at Badagry General Hospital.

Both vehicles involved were removed from the scene to ease traffic and have been handed over to the police for further investigation and potential prosecution.

Bakare-Oki strongly condemned the driver’s actions, describing them as a serious threat to public safety and a blatant violation of traffic regulations.

“This incident underscores the deadly consequences of disobeying traffic laws,” he said, lamenting the needless loss of life.

He expressed disappointment that, despite ongoing sensitization and enforcement efforts, some motorists continue to endanger lives with reckless behavior.

Reaffirming LASTMA’s commitment to promoting road safety, Bakare-Oki emphasized the importance of responsible driving and called on all motorists to strictly adhere to traffic rules.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, urging all road users to value life and avoid dangerous practices such as driving against traffic.