The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has rescued no fewer than 353 victims of road traffic accidents and emergency incidents across the state within the first five months of 2026, even as it urged motorists and other road users to exercise greater caution amid worsening weather conditions occasioned by the ongoing rainy season.
According to LASTMA, the victims rescued during the period comprised 207 adult males, 137 adult females and nine male children, all of whom benefited from the prompt intervention of LASTMA personnel deployed across the state.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this Sunday while reviewing the operational activities of the Agency’s Rescue and Emergency Response Unit, which responded to numerous accidents and emergencies between January and May.
Bakare-Oki said the rescue figures underscore the agency’s commitment to safeguarding lives on Lagos roads, while also highlighting the increased risks motorists face during periods of heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
He noted that poor visibility, slippery road surfaces, flooded roads, reduced vehicle traction and mechanical failures are among the factors that contribute to a rise in road crashes during the rainy season.
“While we take pride in the successful rescue of 353 individuals within the first five months of the year, these incidents equally serve as a reminder of the need for greater caution and responsibility on our roads, particularly during the ongoing rainy season,” he said.
The LASTMA boss stressed that many road accidents could be avoided through responsible driving habits, strict adherence to speed limits, maintenance of safe distances between vehicles and routine vehicle inspections.
He advised motorists to ensure that critical components of their vehicles, including brakes, tyres, windshield wipers, lights and steering systems, are in good condition before embarking on journeys during periods of inclement weather.
Bakare-Oki also cautioned against excessive speeding during rainfall, warning that wet road surfaces significantly increase braking distances and reduce tyre grip, thereby heightening the risk of collisions and loss of vehicle control.
He further urged drivers to avoid recklessly navigating flooded sections of roads without first assessing the depth and safety of such areas, noting that many avoidable accidents and vehicle breakdowns occur as a result of such actions.
Commending the professionalism and dedication of LASTMA’s Rescue and Emergency Response Team, he acknowledged the support of emergency agencies, healthcare workers, security personnel and other rescue partners whose collaboration has continued to save lives and reduce fatalities on Lagos roads.
The General Manager reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening its emergency response capabilities through continuous training of personnel, acquisition of modern rescue equipment and enhanced collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
He appealed to road users to embrace safety consciousness, patience and discipline while using the state’s road network, emphasizing that road safety remains a collective responsibility.
“Every life preserved is of immeasurable value. We therefore urge all motorists to make safety their foremost priority during this rainy season. Strict compliance with traffic regulations and responsible road conduct remain the most effective safeguards against avoidable tragedies and needless loss of lives,” he added.
As rainfall intensifies across Lagos, LASTMA assured residents of its readiness to respond swiftly to emergencies and provide timely assistance to distressed road users while ensuring smooth traffic flow across the state.