Following a fatal incident between a dispatch rider and a moving train at the PWD Railway Level Crossing in Ikeja on Thursday, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has reiterated its demand for vigilance and strict respect to traffic regulations.  

The dispatch rider, whose motorbike was registered as AGL 179 QR, tried to cross the railroad line as the train was approaching, causing the accident, the agency said in a statement.  The rider died instantly as a result of the tragedy, which happened close to the road that leads to Ikeja GRA.

According to witnesses, the deceased attempted to cross the tracks ahead of the approaching train in an attempt to beat it.  

One witness told reporters, "He was riding very fast and ignored the signals warning of the approaching train."  After the incident, the train continued on its course since it was unable to stop in time.  

Shortly after the collision, LASTMA representatives arrived on the site to control traffic and safeguard the area.  Later, members of the Lagos State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit (SEHMU) evacuated the body, and officers from the Shogunle Police Division joined them.

The tragedy was described as a terrible reminder of the repercussions of impatience and disdain for safety at railway crossings by Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, who also sent condolences to the victim's family in a statement.

“This is a distressing reminder of the dire consequences of impatience and disregard for traffic safety rules, particularly at railway level crossings,” Bakare-Oki said.

Noting that railroad crossings call for extra caution and discipline, he urged dispatch riders and drivers to abide by warning signs, traffic lights, and signals.  "We urge all drivers to exercise caution, patience, and responsibility in order to prevent unnecessary fatalities," he continued.

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