The morning of Thursday, March 9th, was one of tragedy and chaos in the city of Lagos. A moving train operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, rammed into a Lagos State Government staff bus at Shogunle and Ikeja, axis of the state, killing at least six persons, while 80 sustained various degrees of injuries.
The ill-fated bus with Lagos registration number; 04A- 48LA, number 33, was heading to Alausa, Ikeja from Isolo, and in the processing of beating other motorists at the PWD rail crossing, Shogunle, collided with an oncoming train.
It was carrying several passengers, majorly civil servants, and some dependants. Two persons died on the spot while four others died in the hospital.
There were 42 moderately-injured persons, 29 serious injuries and eight mild injuries. 25 persons have been treated and transferred to Gbagada General Hospital, Agege General Hospital and trauma centre at toll gate.
The Federal Government, FG, has directed the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) experts to commence immediate investigation into the early morning Thursday accident.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is an agency under the Federal Ministry of Aviation that is responsible for investigating all civil aircraft accidents and serious incidents, with the aim of determining the cause and contributing factors of the accident, with a view to preventing a recurrence of such accidents.
The FG has expressed deep condolences and commiserated with the state government and residents, especially, those who have lost their loved ones, on the sad event, and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor, Babjide Sanwo-Olu, in swift response, expressed deep shock and sorrow over the unfortunate incident.
Sanwo-Olu, later, declared a three day mourning and directed flags to fly at half-mast and civil servants work half day tomorrow (Friday).
Speaking at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, when he visited to assess the situation and commiserate with victims, Governor Sanwo-Olu said, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the accident.
The vehicle was conveying staff of the Lagos State Government, our staff who serve the state in different capacities. Let’s say a prayer for the families and a prayer of mercy and protection for our state. My thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”
The governor also commended candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Jide Adeniran and Labour Party, LP, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, for visiting and commiserating with the families, saying ‘it is important to thank two of my other competitors – Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and Mr Olajide Adeniran, who I learnt were here earlier, for their show of commitment beyond politics. I thank them for coming here.”
The accident highlights the need for the government to enforce strict safety measures on the roads and railways. Many Nigerians are worried about the high number of accidents that occur regularly in the country, due to the poor condition of roads, inadequate maintenance of vehicles, and reckless driving. There is also a need for more investment in the railway system to improve safety and efficiency.
