New Year Tragedy in Lagos as Road Crashes Claim Two Lives, Injure Six

At least two people were killed and six others sustained injuries in a series of road accidents recorded across major routes in Lagos State on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026, prompting concerns from traffic authorities over reckless driving and speeding.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) confirmed that the crashes occurred at different locations within the metropolis, describing the incidents as largely avoidable and a grim start to the year.

One of the fatal crashes happened at Iyana Itire, inward Oshodi, along the Apapa Expressway, where a Volkswagen commercial bus and a Toyota Sienna collided violently. The impact led to the death of two individuals whose identities were yet to be established at the time of reporting.

LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, through the agency’s spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, said traffic officers swiftly moved to the scene, coordinated the evacuation of the deceased through the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit, and ensured traffic was brought under control to prevent further incidents.

Another accident was recorded at Ibeju Bridge along the Lekki–Ajah Expressway, inward Eleko, involving a DAF tanker and an Opel Zafira. Two occupants of the car sustained critical injuries and were promptly rescued by LASTMA emergency responders before being taken to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.

A third crash occurred at Owode Elede, inward Owode Onirin on the Ikorodu Road axis, where a Volkswagen commercial bus collided with a Toyota Corolla. Four people were injured in the incident and were immediately evacuated to medical facilities, while traffic flow was restored shortly after.

Reacting to the incidents, Bakare-Oki expressed deep regret over the loss of lives, describing the crashes as the result of dangerous driving behaviour, particularly excessive speed. He noted that it was especially painful for such tragedies to occur on a day meant to symbolise renewal and hope.

He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while commending LASTMA personnel for their rapid response, which he said helped prevent further casualties.

The traffic agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing road safety regulations and warned motorists against reckless habits, stressing that strict compliance with traffic laws remains critical, particularly during festive periods marked by increased movement across the state.