A middle-aged man lost his life late Saturday night in a lone crash under the Alaka Bridge in Surulere, Lagos, after allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.
According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the fatal incident occurred at about 11:45 p.m., involving a navy-blue Toyota Camry with registration number EKY 311 GK.
Eyewitnesses reported that the car, which was heading toward Iponri, suddenly lost control near the Alaka Under Bridge, somersaulting several times before coming to a halt. The driver was confirmed dead on the spot.
Operatives of LASTMA’s 24-hour Night Operations Squad, recently deployed to the Surulere corridor, promptly arrived at the scene to secure the area and manage traffic flow.
In a statement issued on Sunday, LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, revealed that preliminary investigations and forensic analysis confirmed the deceased was intoxicated at the time of the crash.
“Forensic evidence confirmed the victim was under the influence of alcohol, which impaired his judgment and reaction time,” Bakare-Oki said.
He praised the swift intervention of LASTMA’s officers, who coordinated rescue operations, prevented secondary crashes, and alerted the Bode Thomas Police Division. The police later handed the deceased’s remains to his wife and relatives after identifying him through his mobile phone.
Bakare-Oki described the incident as “a tragic but sobering reminder” of the dangers of drunk driving, especially during the Ember Months, when road accidents typically spike.
He reiterated that LASTMA’s round-the-clock operations were aimed at enhancing traffic safety, emergency response, and accident prevention across Lagos.
“We appeal to all motorists to stay disciplined, obey traffic laws, and avoid reckless behaviour that endangers lives. LASTMA’s presence, day and night, is to save lives,” he added.
