A routine journey ended in tragedy on Monday after a mother and her child were crushed to death when two heavily loaded container trucks overturned at Mile 2, near Freeman Market, inward Apapa, Lagos State.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the heartbreaking incident in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq.
According to the agency, the two victims became trapped beneath the overturned trucks and their containerised cargo, suffering fatal injuries before rescue teams could save them.
The accident threw the busy Mile 2 corridor into confusion as emergency responders rushed to the scene. LASTMA officials immediately cordoned off the affected section of the road and diverted traffic through a nearby service lane to prevent further accidents and reduce gridlock.
To clear the wreckage, the agency deployed a crane and a heavy-duty tow truck, while officers of the Nigeria Police Force provided security throughout the rescue and recovery operation.
The bodies of the deceased were later evacuated to the Police Mortuary in Yaba for necessary procedures.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the loss as deeply painful and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.
He called for a thorough investigation into the crash to determine its immediate and remote causes, including possible mechanical failure, overloading, poor cargo distribution, driver negligence or any other contributing factors.
Bakare-Oki also urged operators of articulated vehicles to ensure their trucks are mechanically sound, properly secure their cargo and comply strictly with road safety regulations.
He further appealed to motorists, especially truck drivers, to drive responsibly and prioritise the safety of other road users, stressing that regular vehicle maintenance, proper cargo handling and responsible driving remain critical to reducing avoidable road crashes and loss of lives across Lagos.
