An unidentified cyclist lost his life on Sunday morning following a collision with a truck in the Alausa area of Lagos State.
The deceased cyclist, who was reportedly speeding while engaged in a phone conversation with an unidentified person, hit his head on the pavement by the roadside.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed the tragic incident in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, on Sunday.
According to the agency’s spokesman, “The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) today swiftly responded to a tragic accident involving a cyclist and a heavily loaded truck (registration number BDG 610 YA) at Alausa Bus Stop, approaching ‘Radio’ by Kudirat Abiola Way, along Obafemi Awolowo Way, Ikeja.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the cyclist, while attempting a manoeuvre from Kudirat Abiola Way towards ‘Radio’ along Obafemi Awolowo Way, collided with the moving truck. In the process, he tragically lost control, struck his head violently against the pavement, and succumbed to fatal injuries instantaneously.”
LASTMA further stated, “Eyewitness accounts suggest that the cyclist was engaged in a phone conversation using an earpiece at the time of the incident, resulting in a fatal lapse in concentration on the busy expressway.
“LASTMA operatives promptly arrived at the scene, efficiently securing the area to safeguard other road users and maintain seamless traffic flow.”
The agency also confirmed that officers from Alausa Police Division were immediately notified and responded accordingly.
LASTMA officials subsequently handed over custody of the deceased’s remains to the police, who transported the body to the General Hospital mortuary in Ikeja.
Extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, underscored the critical importance of unwavering adherence to road safety protocols.
He particularly cautioned cyclists to ensure they are appropriately equipped with all necessary protective gear and to avoid all forms of distraction, including contesting the right of way with motorised traffic.
The LASTMA GM stated, “Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time.
“We earnestly urge all cyclists to prioritise their personal safety and that of fellow road users by remaining fully alert and suitably equipped at all times while traversing public roads.”
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