3 feared dead, 84 critically injured as train crushes Lagos staff bus

BY MIKE OCHONMA

…..Minister, Sanwo-Olu sympathises with family members

At least a male and two female dead bodies and another 84 critically wounded passengers according to source from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) were evacuated from an accident scene when a Lagos state government owned staff bus with registration no 04A- 48LA was this morning, Thursday, March 9, 2023, crushed by a moving train at PWD, Ikeja area of Lagos.

Director, public affairs and enlightenment of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Adebayo Taofiq who confirmed the incident, stated that “LASTMA enforcement officers who were the first emergency responders at the scene of the accident had called other emergency responders and at present rescue activities are currently on-going.

“The accident recorded many casualties as the staff bus that was fully loaded with government staff going to office this morning”.

According to LASEMA source, scores of the passengers wounded have been take to many hospitals for free medical attention and treatment within the next 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s minister of transportation, Muazu Sambo has commiserated with the family members of those passengers affected in the unfortunate train and passenger staff bus incident.

According to a statement from the ministry of transportation, the minister said he is saddened by the news of the accident which occurred this morning involving a train operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation and a Lagos State staff bus, conveying workers to duty early hours of today in Shogunle, Lagos.

“We pray for eternal repose for those who have lost their lives and we pray the Almighty God grant them eternal rest and we pray speedy recovery to the injured”.

“We commiserate with the families of the victims and particularly the governor and people of Lagos state. Please accept our deepest concern and sincere condolences”.

The ministry said it also appreciate the corporation we got from the Lagos state government, NEMA and concerned Nigerians who swung into action after the ill-fated incident to ensure the site was cleared and the injured got treatment almost immediately.

On his part, the Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the early Thursday morning accident involving a train and a Lagos State Government staff bus, which happened between Shogunle and Ikeja axis.

The governor, who is saddened by the event, sends deep condolences to the families of those that lost their lives in the accident, praying that God would grant them eternal rest.

He 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.”

In a statement signed by his chief press secretary, Gboyega Akosile, governor Sanwo-Olu thanks Lagosians who joined 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 ground and we will share more information shortly.” He said.
The governor promised to give updates on the incident as it is deemed necessary.