series of road crashes on the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway left one person dead, another seriously injured, and triggered hours of severe traffic disruption on Friday, prompting emergency agencies to urge motorists to avoid the busy corridor.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the first crash occurred shortly after midnight on the outbound lane toward Ibadan. The collision involved five articulated trucks and a Toyota Sienna vehicle.
Preliminary investigations indicate that excessive speed and loss of vehicle control were responsible for the crash. Seven adult men were involved in the accident. One person died at the scene, another sustained injuries, while five others escaped unharmed.
Emergency responders faced significant challenges as the victim’s body became trapped beneath one of the heavily loaded trucks, requiring specialised recovery equipment to complete the rescue operation.
While emergency teams were still working at the scene, a second accident occurred around 3:15 a.m. on the inbound carriageway toward Lagos. The incident involved a Mazda commercial bus, with investigators attributing the crash to brake failure. The driver suffered serious injuries and was taken to the Lagos State Accident and Emergency Centre for medical treatment.
The FRSC, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and other emergency responders coordinated efforts to remove the damaged vehicles, clear the roadway, and restore normal traffic flow.
Authorities expressed sympathy to the families affected by the crashes and appealed to motorists to remain patient while recovery operations continued.
Drivers were advised to avoid the Kara–Ojodu Berger corridor and use alternative routes, including the Ikorodu-Sagamu Road for outbound traffic and the Lekki-Epe Expressway or Ikorodu-Sagamu Expressway for inbound journeys into Lagos.
The FRSC also reminded motorists, particularly commercial bus and truck operators, to ensure their vehicles are mechanically fit before embarking on long-distance trips, with special attention to braking systems. The agency further cautioned against unnecessary night travel, noting that poor visibility, rainfall and fog significantly increase the risk of road accidents.
Officials said road safety agencies will continue working together to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for commuters across one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors.
