LASTMA rescues 353 accident victims in five months

By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued 353 victims of road traffic accidents and other emergencies across the state between January and May 2026.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday while urging motorists and other road users to exercise greater caution as rainfall intensifies across Lagos.

According to him, those rescued comprised 207 adult males, 137 adult females and nine male children who benefited from the agency’s emergency response operations during the period.

Bakare-Oki said the figure underscored both LASTMA’s commitment to saving lives and the increasing dangers associated with driving during the rainy season.

He warned that poor visibility, slippery road surfaces, flooding, reduced vehicle traction and mechanical failures often contribute to road crashes during periods of heavy rainfall.

“While we take pride in the successful rescue of 353 individuals within the first five months of the year, these incidents equally serve as a reminder of the need for greater caution and responsibility on our roads, particularly during the ongoing rainy season,” he said.

The LASTMA boss advised motorists to obey traffic regulations, avoid speeding and reckless overtaking, maintain safe driving distances and ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on journeys.

He also cautioned drivers against attempting to navigate flooded sections of roads without first assessing the depth and condition of the affected areas.

Bakare-Oki commended members of the agency’s Rescue and Emergency Response Team as well as other emergency responders for their contributions to saving lives.

He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to strengthening its emergency response capacity through continuous training, acquisition of modern rescue equipment and improved collaboration with relevant agencies.

“Every life preserved is of immeasurable value. We therefore urge all motorists to make safety their foremost priority during this rainy season,” he added.