Lagos City Marathon: Lagos Launches Probe Into Ambulance Accident

LAGOS — The Lagos State Government has formally commenced an investigation into a harrowing incident involving an official emergency vehicle during the 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon. Late Saturday, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed that an ambulance struck a female non-athlete near the competition’s finish line. The vehicle was reportedly transporting distressed athletes for medical care when it came into contact with the unidentified bystander. Following the collision, which was captured in a widely circulated viral video, medical teams immediately evacuated the victim to a state-owned health facility. Consequently, the Ministry of Health has placed the woman under close professional observation to ensure her full recovery from chest pains and various bruises.

Preliminary reports from the scene indicate that official medical personnel promptly assessed the victim’s vital signs, which remained stable despite the impact. Furthermore, senior government officials have visited the patient to monitor her progress and reaffirm the state’s commitment to her welfare. The Lagos State Sports Commission, in collaboration with health authorities, is currently reviewing the safety protocols established for the race perimeter. This investigation seeks to determine whether a lapse in crowd control or vehicular speed contributed to the “unfortunate development” in the event arena. Meanwhile, the victim remains in stable condition and is reportedly responding positively to intensive treatment.

The incident has sparked a heated digital discourse regarding the logistical management of such massive metropolitan events. While the marathon successfully hosted over 20,000 runners, the finish-line collision underscores the precarious balance between rapid medical response and public safety. In a related development, other spectators have called for more rigorous barricading around high-speed ambulance corridors to prevent future contact with non-participants. Furthermore, the State Government has assured the public that the findings of the ongoing probe will lead to enhanced safety measures for the 2027 edition. Ultimately, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks present in navigating Lagos’ densely populated sporting spectacles.