Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria said the driver is to be blamed for the accident involving a train and a BRT bus in Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria on Thursday.
Gatekeepers News earlier reported that six people have been confirmed dead from the accident involving a train and a BRT bus conveying staff of the Lagos government with two people confirmed dead.
According to witnesses at the scene, the bus was attempting to cross the rail track when the oncoming train rammed into it.
In a chat with NAN, Okhiria said the driver attempted to cross the rail tracks and beat the train.
The NRC boss, therefore, urged Lagos drivers to be careful when driving through the level crossing.
He said, “According to the information I gathered at the scene of the incident, they said many cars stopped when they got to the level crossing while the Lagos State Staff Bus driver continued moving, which I don’t know why.
“Maybe the driver thought he could pass before the train got nearer to him. He could not pass, and then the train crushed the bus; that is what we gathered.
“The train was coming from Ijoko to Iddo.”
Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos has expressed sadness over the incident.
In a tweet, Sanwo-Olu appreciated “well-meaning Lagosians” who immediately joined in rescue efforts and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.
The tweet read, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the train/bus 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. 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.”
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service (LSBTS) has called for voluntary blood donation at Gbagada General Hospital, LASUTH Ikeja, General Hospital Lagos, and Accident and Emergency center Tollgate.
Donors are to contact 08033011137 or 07044242185 for further information.
