… calls for road safety enhancements to prevent re-occurrence

… warns against road trading

The Club Seventies Epe has called on the Lagos State Government and relevant authorities to enforce stricter road safety measures to address reckless driving, poor safety practices, and road trading, following a tragic accident in Epe on November 11, 2024, which claimed over five lives.

In a statement obtained by Advisors Reports on Thursday, the President of the club, Yunus Yusuf, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and its impact on the community.

“We are devastated by this unfortunate incident and mourn with the families of those who lost their lives,” Yusuf said.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we wish them a swift recovery. We also use this medium to wish all affected victims lying at the Epe General Hospital (FMC Epe) quick recovery.

“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may we find the strength to honor their memory by taking steps to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Yusuf prayed.

The tragic accident, according to him, reportedly caused by reckless driving and poor road safety practices, has heightened concerns within the community.

The President of the Club Seventies Epe has therefore urged authorities to enforce stricter safety measures on the roads and condemned road trading, which it described as a major threat to public safety.

“Road trading remains a significant hazard to both traders and road users.

“We urge residents to desist from this practice and find safer alternatives. Safety must be prioritized to prevent future tragedies,” Yusuf stated.

He further reaffirmed the club’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to enhance road safety and protect lives in the community.

“Club Seventies Epe has further pledged to collaborate with stakeholders to promote road safety awareness and education.

“We also called on local authorities to address road congestion and implement measures to safeguard lives, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent future tragedies,” he said.

Mr. Yusuf also highlighted the importance of installing speed breakers at bends and accident-prone areas within Epe to control driver speed and reduce the likelihood of collisions. “

These measures will significantly enhance safety and protect lives,” the President noted.

Reflecting on the tragic November 11, 2024, accident, Yusuf described it as a sobering reminder of the need for collective action to ensure safer roads.

The devastating incident occurred at Ayeyoro, Epe, where a Dangote truck with plate number DCG-TM-028 suffered brake failure while descending from Ita-Opo.

The truck collided with a tricycle (plate number AGL 442 QC) and a stationary Toyota Camry at the Ayeyoro traffic light before crashing into the Ayetoro Market Complex.

The casualities include a tricycle driver and two students from Manpower Technical School.

First responders from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) secured the area and transported the deceased to the Epe General Hospital mortuary