Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, on Thursday visited Epe Township to offer condolences to families affected by a tragic truck accident that took place on Monday, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Dr. Hamzat joined a Special Prayer session held in remembrance of the victims and addressed the importance of collective responsibility in road safety.
Speaking to the press after the event, Dr Hamzat emphasized that preventing accidents requires joint efforts from both the government and the public.
“Safety is a collaborative effort,” he said, urging citizens to support traffic officials and the government in taking firm action against reckless behaviours such as speeding, overloading, and driving under the influence. He highlighted these factors as major contributors to road accidents.
Dr. Hamzat outlined several measures the state government has implemented to promote safer driving.
He referenced the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute, an agency responsible for the training, retraining, and recertification of professional drivers to ensure road safety standards are met.
Additionally, he mentioned ongoing partnerships with businesses operating large fleets to ensure their drivers receive proper certification through the Institute.
Providing an update on the victims’ recovery, Dr. Hamzat revealed that nine of the injured individuals have been discharged from the hospital, while others are still receiving treatment at different facilities.
He offered prayers for the deceased and expressed hope for the swift recovery of the injured.
Hon. Wale Raji, a Member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Epe Constituency, also attended the event. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of vehicle maintenance and adherence to traffic laws, urging drivers to act responsibly on the road.
“If a vehicle strikes and kills someone, we shouldn’t just call it fate. Drivers must be accountable for their actions, and victims’ families deserve compensation,” Raji said. He praised the swift response from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation.
Hon. Abiodun Tobun, a representative from the Lagos State House of Assembly for Epe Constituency I, described the accident as deeply tragic.
He called on the government to strengthen its rescue response capabilities and to provide designated parking spaces for trucks, thereby reducing instances of illegal parking.
Tobun further advocated for restrictions on large trailers passing through residential areas during the day, stating that these vehicles pose ongoing risks to local residents.
The visit from Dr. Hamzat and other government representatives underscored the state’s commitment to addressing road safety and preventing future tragedies, while also offering support to the grieving families of Epe.