Tragedy struck on Monday, February 23, 2026, when a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officer and two pedestrians were crushed to death at the Badagry Roundabout inward Seme, Lagos, following a reported brake failure involving a truck.
The devastating crash sent shockwaves through the community, with residents expressing concern over the increasing number of accidents recorded along the Badagry axis in recent times.
According to initial reports, the fully loaded SHACMAN truck, said to belong to the Dangote Group, suffered a catastrophic brake failure while travelling at high speed. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, crushing the LASTMA officer who was regulating traffic at the roundabout, along with a pedestrian.
The truck continued moving and struck another individual before finally coming to a halt approximately 200 metres from the initial point of impact.
The driver fled the scene but was later apprehended by other LASTMA personnel and handed over to the police.
Emergency responders, including officials of LASTMA, the Badagry Police Division, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and concerned residents, swiftly mobilised to the scene. The victims were rushed to the General Hospital, Badagry, where they were pronounced dead.
Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed profound grief and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.
The LASTMA officer who lost his life was a dedicated public servant who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of Lagos. We honour his courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty.”
Bakare-Oki also stressed the urgent need for stricter vehicle maintenance across the transport sector.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of mechanical failures. We implore all haulage operators and logistics companies to implement rigorous and regular maintenance checks, especially on braking systems, to prevent such avoidable accidents.”
The truck involved in the crash has been impounded and transferred to the Badagry Police Division for forensic investigation.
