Train accident casualties now three, 84 injured, Sanwo-Olu visits hospital

The number of people killed in an early morning Lagos train-bus collision on Thursday has risen to three. Eighty-four other persons were confirmed as sustaining serious injury in the accident.

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has visited the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) where those injured in a accident are being attended to.
He was accompanied by the Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi, and Chief Medical Director of LASUTH, Prof. Adetokunbo Fabanwo.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) confirmed three people died while 84 others injured.

Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, said, “Investigation gathered revealed that the immediate cause of the incident was due to reckless driving from the part of the BRT bus driver while trying to beat the train road signal before the moving train rammed into the BRT bus.

“Unfortunately, three adults (two females and one male) were confirmed dead and 84 people were seriously injured.

“The injured victims have been administered first aid treatment by the agency’s medical team (paramedics) and LASAMBUS officials and were well stabilized before being transported to Ikeja General Hospital and trauma center for further treatment.

“The agency pre-hospital care unit, LASAMBUS officials, Nigeria Police Force, LASTMA, LNSC, and Nigerian Army are responders present at the scene of the incident.”

The affected bus has been removed from the track and the train recovered by the LASEMA crane.

Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed shock and sorrow over the accident.
He registered his sincere condolences to the families of those that lost their lives in the accident, praying that God would grant them eternal rest.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation to 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.
The statement read in part, “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.”