Tuesday, 10th February 2026 remains a tragic experience for commuter’s and passersby as a tragic road incident involving a commercial minibus along the Ballet inward corridor to Mile 2 in the Okota area of Lagos led to the Loss of livesof Two persons while eight others were rescued.
The accident, which occurred along the busy axis in Isolo, involved a yellow commercial bus identified with registration number SMK 823 YK. The vehicle reportedly overturned and burst into flames while conveying passengers.
Preliminary findings indicate that the crash was triggered after an unidentified private vehicle allegedly reversed on the main carriageway, forcing the speeding commercial bus to apply a sudden brake. The abrupt manoeuvre reportedly caused the bus to lose control, overturn multiple times and subsequently catch fire.
Investigations further revealed that the driver was allegedly transporting a five-litre container of petrol inside the vehicle. The inflammable substance ignited immediately after the crash, leading to a severe fire outbreak.
Tragically, the driver and a female passenger seated in the front of the bus were burnt beyond recognition in the inferno.
Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), who were on routine patrol within the area, responded swiftly to the incident. Eight passengers were rescued from the wreckage before the fire escalated and were immediately evacuated to a nearby medical facility with the assistance of a public-spirited motorist.
The accident scene was secured with the support of the Divisional Traffic Officer of the Ilasa Police Division, who ensured adequate security and traffic control to prevent further disruption along the corridor.
Officials of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, alongside LASAMBUS, also arrived promptly to extinguish the fire and manage emergency response operations.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured passengers a speedy recovery.
He also warned motorists against dangerous driving practices, particularly reversing on highways, noting that such actions pose serious risks and can lead to avoidable tragedies. He further cautioned commercial drivers against transporting highly inflammable substances while conveying passengers.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property on Lagos roads, urging all road users to comply strictly with traffic regulations and prioritise safety at all times.
Further investigations into the incident are ongoing.