Gbagada Expressway: Two accidents cause traffic gridlock in Lagos

Motorists experienced slow-moving traffic on the Gbagada Expressway in Lagos on Thursday following two separate accidents that disrupted traffic flow along the busy corridor.

The first accident involved two major trucks, while the second involved two trailers and five other vehicles near the Charlie Boy area of the expressway.

Our correspondent at the scene observed a heavy build-up of vehicles as officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), supported by tow trucks and a forklift, worked to clear the wreckage.

One of the trucks involved in the major accident had been removed from the road by the time of filing this report, while efforts were ongoing to evacuate the second.

At the second accident scene near Charlie Boy, the five other vehicles involved had already been evacuated, while efforts were underway to remove the two trailers still obstructing the road.

Speaking at the scene, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the agency had been working since 5am to restore normal traffic flow.

“As you can see, the major one here, all efforts is on ground to remove it. The first one has been removed about 45 minutes ago,” he said.

Bakare-Oki said LASTMA had deployed a forklift and two heavy-duty tow trucks, while another crane was being arranged to complete the clearance operation.

“We have every equipment, a forklift, another two major tow trucks here. But we are trying to arrange another crane now. The arrangement is solid. We will put all hands on deck and ensure the vehicle is removed,” he said.

On the second accident, the LASTMA boss said it involved two trailers and five vehicles.

“There is another accident at the back by Charlie Boy involving two trailers and five vehicles. All five vehicles have been evacuated. A tow truck is at that spot too, about to remove the two trailers,” he said.

Motorists using the Gbagada Expressway were advised to exercise caution and expect delays while LASTMA officials continued clearing the accident scenes.