A devastating accident on Eko Bridge in Lagos on May 7, 2025, claimed the lives of two dispatch riders when two Mack trucks collided, underscoring the persistent dangers faced by motorcyclists on Nigeria’s busy roadways. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, disrupted traffic and prompted swift intervention by emergency services, while reigniting discussions about road safety and the regulation of heavy vehicles in urban areas.
The collision involved two articulated trucks, one reportedly carrying goods and the other empty, which crashed near the Costain end of the bridge. According to eyewitness accounts, one truck lost control, possibly due to brake failure or reckless driving, and veered into the path of the second truck. The impact was catastrophic, trapping the two dispatch riders, who were navigating the bridge on their motorcycles, in the wreckage. The riders, whose identities have not been publicly disclosed, were pronounced dead at the scene by responding medical personnel. Their motorcycles were mangled beyond recognition, and the trucks sustained significant damage, with debris scattered across the roadway.
Emergency response teams, including officers from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency and the state’s traffic management authority, were deployed promptly to manage the scene. The bodies of the deceased were evacuated to a nearby morgue, and efforts were made to clear the bridge, which serves as a critical artery connecting Lagos Island to the mainland. The accident caused significant traffic delays, with commuters stranded for hours as authorities worked to restore normalcy. Preliminary investigations suggest that mechanical failure or driver error may have contributed to the crash, though a comprehensive inquiry is underway to determine the exact cause.
The tragedy has highlighted the vulnerability of dispatch riders, who have become integral to Lagos’ economy due to the rise of e-commerce and delivery services. These riders often navigate congested roads alongside heavy vehicles, facing risks from poorly maintained infrastructure, reckless driving, and lax enforcement of traffic regulations. The incident has spurred calls from road safety advocates for stricter oversight of commercial vehicles, including mandatory maintenance checks and enhanced driver training. Additionally, there is growing demand for dedicated lanes for motorcyclists to reduce their exposure to larger vehicles.
Local authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and vowed to expedite the investigation. The Lagos State government has also reiterated its commitment to improving road safety through ongoing infrastructure upgrades and public awareness campaigns. However, for the families of the two riders, the loss is a stark reminder of the human cost of Nigeria’s road safety challenges. As the investigation progresses, the incident serves as a somber call to action for stakeholders to address the systemic issues plaguing the nation’s transport network.