BRT driver faces 16-count charges over Lagos train accident

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice is set to press 16 charges of manslaughter and causing grievous bodily harm against Oluwaseun Osibanjo, the driver of the BRT bus that collided with a moving train in Lagos.

The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of six Lagos State Government staff and passengers of the train, while 96 others were injured to varying degrees.

The collision occurred on March 9, when a staff bus collided with a train at the PWD railway crossing in Ikeja and the train dragged the bus and its passengers along the tracks until it came to a halt at Sogunle, a suburb of Ikeja.

In a statement released on Friday by the Director of Public Affairs in the ministry, Grace Alo, the BRT driver is faced with 16-count charges.

“Upon the receipt and review of the case file by the Department of Public Prosecution (DPP), a prima facie case of manslaughter and grievous bodily harm were disclosed against the driver of the Staff bus.

“Accordingly, he is to be charged with 6 counts of manslaughter and 10 counts of grievous bodily harm.

“Both offences are contrary to Sections 224 and 245 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015,” the statement read.

According to the statement, charges will be promptly filed against the driver by the Office of the DPP. Nevertheless, his appearance before the Ikeja High Court for trial will be postponed until he has completely recovered from the severe injuries sustained during the accident.