A commercial minibus erupted in flames along the Okota–Isolo corridor in Lagos on Tuesday, claiming two lives and leaving eight others injured.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the incident in a statement issued by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment. The vehicle involved was a yellow commercial minibus, locally called “Faka,” bearing registration number SMK 823 YK, operating along the Ballet inward route toward Mile 2, Okota.
According to preliminary security reports, the accident occurred when an unidentified private vehicle reversed on the main carriageway, forcing the approaching commercial bus—travelling at high speed—to brake abruptly. The sudden manoeuvre caused the minibus to lose control, overturn multiple times, and catch fire with nine passengers, including the driver, on board.
Investigations revealed that the driver had been transporting a five-litre container of petrol inside the vehicle. Upon impact, the highly flammable fuel ignited, triggering a devastating fire. The driver and a female passenger seated in front were burned beyond recognition.
LASTMA officials on routine patrol responded immediately, pulling eight passengers from the burning wreckage before the flames intensified. The survivors were rushed to a nearby hospital with assistance from a Good Samaritan motorist.
Security and traffic management at the scene were coordinated by the Divisional Traffic Officer of Ilasa Police Division. Personnel from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, along with LASAMBUS, arrived shortly after to extinguish the blaze and assist in rescue operations.
Reacting to the tragedy, Mr. Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, expressed profound sadness over the fatalities and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also wished the injured a swift and complete recovery.
Giwa issued a stern warning to motorists—both private and commercial—against reckless driving practices, especially reversing on highways, calling such behaviour life-threatening and a preventable cause of fatal accidents.
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