A tragic accident on Monday, February 24, 2025, along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway has claimed the life of a 12-year-old student, leaving her 15-year-old sibling critically injured. The two sisters were returning home from school when a yet-to-be-identified driver, reportedly speeding on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane, struck them near Ogundare bus stop.
Lagos Police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident in a statement, describing the driver’s reckless behavior and the severe consequences of the accident.
“At approximately 3:35 pm, a driver traveling at high speed on the restricted BRT lane hit two female pedestrians, siblings aged 12 and 15, who were on their way home from school,” Hundeyin said.
The impact left both girls with severe injuries. Bystanders and emergency responders rushed the victims to the Orile Agege General Hospital for urgent medical attention. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, the 12-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries while receiving treatment. Her 15-year-old sister, still in critical condition, was later transferred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for advanced care.
The Lagos State Police Commissioner, CP Olohundare M. Jimoh, extended his condolences to the bereaved family and promised that the police would leave no stone unturned in bringing the driver to justice.
In his statement, CP Jimoh emphasized the police command’s dedication to ensuring that those who break traffic laws and endanger the lives of innocent citizens face the full weight of the law.
“This tragic incident is a painful reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the need for all motorists to comply with traffic regulations. We will ensure that the driver responsible is identified, arrested, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he stated.
As investigations continue, the Lagos Police Command is urging anyone with information about the driver or the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run to come forward. Witnesses are encouraged to provide details that may assist in tracking down the suspect and ensuring justice is served for the grieving family.
In addition, Hundeyin used the opportunity to call on all road users to obey traffic laws, respect speed limits, and prioritize pedestrian safety. He particularly warned against the misuse of the BRT lane, which is strictly reserved for public transportation vehicles.
“The BRT lane is not meant for private vehicles. This accident could have been avoided if the driver had followed the appropriate traffic regulations. We urge all motorists to exercise caution and responsibility while on the road,” he added.
The accident has sparked outrage among residents and road users, who are demanding stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and greater accountability for reckless drivers. Many have called on the Lagos State government to install more surveillance cameras along major highways and to strengthen penalties for those who violate BRT lane restrictions.
A local resident, who witnessed the aftermath of the accident, expressed frustration over the growing number of traffic-related incidents in the area.
“This is not the first time we are witnessing reckless driving on the BRT lane. Innocent lives are being lost because some drivers refuse to follow simple traffic rules. We need the government to act fast and prevent future tragedies,” the resident said.
Parents in the community have also raised concerns about the safety of their children, particularly during school hours when pedestrian traffic is high. Many are calling for increased road safety measures, including the presence of traffic officers and the installation of pedestrian crossings near schools and bus stops.
The Lagos Police Command has assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Authorities are reviewing surveillance footage from the accident scene and working closely with transportation agencies to identify the vehicle and its driver.
The police are also engaging with the families of the victims to provide support during this difficult time and have reiterated their commitment to delivering justice swiftly and transparently.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Lagos State Police Command through its emergency hotlines or visit the nearest police station.
As the investigation progresses, the Lagos State government is expected to address public concerns and outline measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.