Chaos on Lagos Roads: Multiple Crashes Claim Two Lives on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at Kara Bridge, Trigger Massive Gridlock

 

Commuters faced hours of nightmare gridlock on Sunday as multiple vehicle crashes, including a fatal multi-vehicle collision on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, brought major sections of the busy highway to a standstill.

The most serious incident occurred at the Kara Bridge axis, inward Mowe, where a truck loaded with bags of flour reportedly lost control and rammed into several vehicles, including commercial buses. At least two commuters lost their lives in the crash, while several others sustained injuries of varying degrees.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other emergency responders were quickly deployed to the scene to rescue victims, provide first aid, and clear the wreckage. The accident has once again spotlighted safety concerns on the notorious Kara Bridge, a recurrent blackspot for fatal collisions due to high traffic volume, speeding, and structural issues.

The collision caused severe gridlock stretching several kilometers, with vehicles backed up on both carriageways. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes, including the Ikorodu Road corridor, Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, or other bypasses where possible, to avoid the prolonged delays.

In related developments, reports of additional crashes and traffic snarls emerged across Lagos, including incidents on connecting routes like parts of Ikorodu Road, contributing to widespread chaos in the metropolis on the busy Sunday.

FRSC officials attributed the primary crash to loss of control, possibly linked to overspeeding or mechanical failure, and reiterated calls for drivers to adhere to speed limits, maintain vehicle roadworthiness, and exercise caution on high-risk sections of the expressway.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and other agencies worked alongside FRSC to manage traffic flow and restore normalcy as quickly as possible. Commuters were urged to remain patient, avoid risky maneuvers such as driving against traffic, and stay updated via official channels.

This latest tragedy underscores the persistent challenges on Nigeria's busiest highway corridor, where frequent accidents continue to claim lives and disrupt economic activities. Authorities have promised intensified patrols and enforcement to curb reckless driving ahead of peak travel periods.

Motorists are reminded to drive responsibly and report emergencies promptly to relevant agencies for swift response.