Ten injured in Third Mainland Bridge crash as LASEMA clears bus off rail track

At least 10 passengers were injured on Wednesday morning in a multiple-vehicle crash on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, according to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).

LASEMA said the trouble started when a commercial bus stopped on the bridge to repair a faulty tyre. Another bus rammed into it, and a trailer then hit the second bus before fleeing the scene.

Emergency responders gave first aid to the injured passengers and took them to hospital for treatment. The affected stretch of the bridge was later cleared and reopened to traffic.

The Third Mainland Bridge is one of Lagos's busiest routes, linking the island to the mainland. A crash there in the morning can hold up thousands of commuters heading to work, and can delay commercial buses and goods moving across the city.

Bus pulled off rail track at Ilupeju

In a separate incident the same day, a commercial bus broke down on a railway track at Ilupeju Bypass. LASEMA said its response team used a light tow truck to pull the bus off the track, averting a possible collision with an approaching train.

The agency said responders were on the ground to manage the situation and ensure the bus was removed.

LASEMA urged motorists not to carry out roadside repairs on highways and bridges, and to service their vehicles regularly to lower the risk of accidents.

It also asked residents who need emergency help to call its lines on 767 or 112.

What happens next

The injured passengers are receiving treatment in hospital. LASEMA's advice to drivers — keep vehicles in good shape and avoid fixing them on the road — is the agency's stated focus after both incidents.