March 09, (THEWILL) – The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has confirmed three people dead and 84 others injured in an incident involving a train and a Lagos State government staff bus, on Thursday morning, in Lagos.
THEWILL earlier reported that a passenger train of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), on Thursday morning, rammed into a BRT bus conveying staff of the Lagos State Government, near PWD bus stop, before Oshodi.
Permanent Secretary of the Agency, Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, in an update on the incident, said three adults (two females and one male) were confirmed dead and 84 people were seriously injured.
He said, “On the arrival of the agency’s response team at the scene of the incident, investigation gathered revealed that the immediate cause of the incident was due to reckless driving from part of the BRT bus driver while trying to beat the train road signal before the moving train rammed into the BRT bus.
“Unfortunately, three adults (two females and one male) were confirmed dead and 84 people were seriously injured.
“The injured victims have been administered first aid treatment by the agency’s medical team (paramedics) and LASAMBUS officials and were well stabilised before being transported to Ikeja General Hospital and trauma centre for further treatment.
“The agency pre-hospital care unit, LASAMBUS officials, Nigeria Police Force, LASTMA, LNSC, and Nigerian Army are responders present at the scene of the incident.”
Meanwhile, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed shock over the incident.
The Governor expressed his sincere condolences to the families of those that lost their lives, praying that God would grant them eternal rest.
“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,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu, however, expressed appreciation to residents, who assisted the state’s first responders in the search and rescue operation, saying “the true spirit of Lagos must be sustained at all times.
“A big thank you to well-meaning Lagosians, who immediately joined in rescue efforts. Our first responders and emergency services are on the ground and we will share more information shortly.”
