A devastating collision between multiple heavy-duty vehicles at the Otedola Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has claimed the life of a trailer driver. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 23, 2026, has triggered a massive traffic crisis for thousands of commuters heading into the heart of Lagos.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the fatality resulted from a violent crash between two articulated vehicles. Consequently, emergency responders from several agencies were deployed to the scene to manage what has been described as a “catastrophic” situation.
Reckless Driving Leads to Tragedy
According to LASTMA spokesperson Adebayo Taofiq, the primary accident involved a sand-laden trailer and another vehicle conveying granite. Preliminary reports suggest the crash was sparked by a reckless contest for the right of way between the two heavy-duty drivers.
The force of the impact resulted in the following tragic outcomes:
- Entrapment: The driver of the sand-laden trailer became pinned within the wreckage.
- Fatality: Despite urgent rescue efforts, the driver sustained fatal injuries and was confirmed dead at the scene.
- Hospital Transfer: The deceased has since been moved to Ikeja General Hospital.
Furthermore, a second, separate crash occurred just a short distance from the primary site, further complicating the recovery and towing operations.
Gridlock Stretches to Kara Axis
The accidents effectively obstructed nearly 80% of the inward-bound carriageway, causing vehicular movement to grind to a halt. As a result, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Ogun Sector Command reported that the gridlock has now extended as far back as the Kara axis and Warewa.
Two major factors are currently compounding the congestion:
- Vehicle Recovery: The physical blockage caused by the two heavy-duty trailers is still being cleared.
- Ongoing Repairs: Ongoing reinstallation of expansion joints on the Kara Bridge has already restricted lane capacity, making the sudden accident even more disruptive.
Strategic Traffic Diversions
To alleviate the suffering of motorists traveling from Mowe, Redemption Camp, and the Kara Bridge axis, authorities have implemented the following redirection measures:
- The Diversion Route: Motorists are being redirected through the Ojodu-Olole route.
- Key Connection Points: Traffic is being funneled through Agidingbi, Coca-Cola, and Secretariat.
- The Exit: This route connects to 7-Up and Gbagada, allowing continued movement with minimal additional delay for those heading toward the Island or Ojota.
Personnel from the Alausa Police Division remain on-site to maintain order, manage crowd control, and support the ongoing towing operations.
Are you currently navigating the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway? 🚦 With 80% of the road blocked, recovery is taking time. Have you successfully used the Agidingbi diversion today, or have you found a faster route? Share your real-time traffic tips in the comments below to help fellow commuters!
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