GOVERNOR Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the early morning accident involving a train and a state government staff bus, which happened between Shogunle and Ikeja axis.
The governor, who is saddened by the event, sent deep condolences to the families of those that lost their lives in the accident, praying that God would grant them eternal rest.
He said: “I am deeply saddened by the news of the accident. The vehicle was conveying staff of the state government, 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.”
In a statement, Sanwo-Olu thanked 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.
“A big thank you to well meaning Lagosians who immediately joined in rescue efforts. Our first responders and emergency services are on ground and we will share more information shortly,” he said.
The governor promised to give updates on the incident as it is deemed necessary.
MEANWHILE, the State Emergency Management Agency has revealed that one more dead body had been recovered from the scene of the train accident.
Earlier, two dead bodies were recovered from the scene.
LASEMA in a statement said that 84 persons suffered varied degrees of serious injuries.
“On arrival of the agency’s response team at the scene of incident, it was discovered that a Viale BRT bus with an unknown registration number and a train were involved in an accident at the above mentioned location.
Investigation gathered revealed that the immediate cause of the incident was due to reckless driving from 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 one male) confirmed dead and 84 people are 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 incident.”
The statement by the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, said that rescue operation was still ongoing.
