LAGOS — A disturbing rise in road crashes along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has left 73 people dead and 393 injured within just three months, according to data released by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).
The deadly toll highlights the growing safety concerns on one of Nigeria’s busiest and most critical highways. FRSC officials say the majority of the accidents were caused by excessive speeding, driver fatigue, and mechanical failures due to poor vehicle maintenance.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred on February 25 near Ayetoro in Ogun State, when a Toyota Hiace bus collided with a stationary truck. The crash, which was blamed on speeding and an exhausted driver, claimed nine lives and left three others wounded.
Earlier, on December 13, 2023, a fatal crash at Kara Turning involved a Toyota Hiace bus and an Iveco truck. The collision, also linked to speeding, killed ten people and injured seven more.
In response to the alarming trend, the FRSC has ramped up its enforcement efforts. Measures include the deployment of mobile courts along the expressway to prosecute traffic offenders and increased patrols aimed at discouraging reckless driving. However, officials stress that human error remains a leading factor in most of the crashes.
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“We urge all motorists to respect speed limits, avoid risky overtaking, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before traveling,” an FRSC spokesperson said.
Despite efforts to enhance safety, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway continues to pose significant risks, prompting calls for more comprehensive and sustained interventions.
