Brake failure blamed as Policeman, Fives Others die in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway accident

At least six people, including a police officer, have been confirmed dead following a tragic multiple-vehicle accident on the Kara Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Wednesday night.

Very Nigerian gathered that the crash, which involved several trucks, including a fuel tanker, led to a massive fire outbreak and gridlock that left commuters stranded for hours.

Witnesses said one of the trucks, carrying unidentified goods, lost control and rammed into the bridge’s barricade, causing its head to detach and plunge into the river below.

One of the victims, believed to be a truck occupant, was reportedly burnt beyond recognition.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that eight casualties were recorded, though details were still sketchy.

Videos shared by the agency showed burnt trucks and lifeless bodies at the scene.

A towing van brought in to separate the vehicles was also struck during the rescue effort.

According to LASTMA, “There was a multiple road crash involving a truck, a container-laden trailer, and another vehicle spilling cartons of biscuits on the road.

A container-laden truck also fell off the bridge into the river, blocking the entire road at Kara Bridge inward Mowe.” The agency said recovery efforts were ongoing as traffic extended to Ogunnusi Road.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olorundare Jimoh, confirmed that five articulated vehicles were involved in the accident, attributing the cause to brake failure.

“We have a case of a multiple accident, which is still under investigation. Unfortunately, we lost a police inspector,” he said, adding that those responsible would face prosecution.

Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were also on the scene to manage the situation.

The gridlock from the crash spilled into the Lagos-bound lane, forcing some drivers to drive against traffic.

Meanwhile, commercial transport operators took advantage of the situation by increasing fares. Passengers traveling from Berger to Oshodi reportedly paid between ₦2,000 and ₦2,500, instead of the usual ₦1,000 to ₦1,200.

The Kara Bridge incident came barely 24 hours after another truck accident occurred on the Otedola Bridge, further raising concerns about road safety on Lagos highways.

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