• Monday, May 06, 2024
businessday logo

BusinessDay

Two confirmed dead, 84 injured in Lagos train-BRT collision

Two confirmed dead, 84 injured in Lagos train-BRT collision

At least two people have been confirmed dead in the train- Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) crash that occurred at the PWD bus stop in Ikeja Lagos Thursday morning. Emergency responders also confirmed that 84 persons who suffered various degrees of injuries from the accident are currently taking treatment in a hospital.

Passersby watched in shock as the dead and injured were removed from the bus that was struck by the train-Oshodi bound train on the rail tracks.

Adebayo Taofiq, spokesman for Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), said though the bus involved in the crash is the same as the regular BRT buses in the state, the bus was a staff bus of the Lagos State Government.

Also, Ibrahim Farinloye, a spokesman for the National Emergency Management Agency in Lagos, said, two adult female staff of the State Government died and several injured people have been evacuated.

Read also: Election postponements cost Nigeria dearly – SBM

“The state government staff bus was trying to cross the PWD/Sogunle rail crossing while the train coming into Lagos from Abeokuta trapped the bus on its rail,” Farinloye said.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos state, took to Twitter to express his concerns and express gratitude to those who quickly reached out to emergency services when the incident happened.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of the train/bus accident . The vehicle was conveying staff of the Lagos state government, our staff who serve the state in different capacities,” Sanwo-Olu tweeted

“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.

“A big thank you to well meaning Lagosians who immediately joined in rescue efforts. Our first responders and emergency services are on ground and we will share more information shortly, ” Sanwo-Olu tweeted.