A tanker driver who allegedly fled the scene after fatally knocking down a commercial delivery motorcycle rider in the Maryland-Ikeja area of Lagos has been arrested by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
The tragic incident occurred along Kodesho Road, opposite MRS Filling Station, inward Awolowo Way/Oba Akran, involving a fully loaded tanker transporting 33-litre groundnut oil and bearing registration number T-19089LA.
According to a statement issued by LASTMA on Wednesday, the delivery rider died instantly after being crushed by the tanker. The driver reportedly attempted to escape without stopping to render assistance or notify the appropriate authorities.
Following a distress alert, LASTMA officials launched an immediate pursuit, intercepted the fleeing vehicle and apprehended the suspect before he could evade arrest.
The agency said both the tanker and the driver have been handed over to the State Traffic Department (STD), Area ‘F’ Police Command, Ikeja, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
LASTMA officers also secured the crash scene, directed traffic and coordinated emergency response efforts to minimise congestion and allow other agencies to carry out their duties.
Meanwhile, fellow delivery riders at the scene contacted the victim’s family and mourned the loss of their colleague.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the fatal crash as both tragic and preventable. He urged operators of tankers and other heavy-duty vehicles to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, drive responsibly and avoid reckless behaviour on the roads.
Bakare-Oki warned that speeding, dangerous driving and fleeing accident scenes are grave offences with serious legal consequences, while reaffirming LASTMA’s commitment to collaborating with security and emergency agencies to improve road safety and ensure swift responses to traffic emergencies across Lagos State.
