The Lagos State government has launched a formal investigation into an incident involving an ambulance at the 11th edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon held on Saturday.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed the development in a statement issued late Saturday, clarifying circumstances surrounding the occurrence near the marathon’s finishing line.
According to the statement, the incident involved a female non-athlete within the event arena who came in contact with an ambulance deployed as part of the official emergency medical response team.
The vehicle was reportedly conveying athletes who had earlier required medical attention when the incident occurred.
Officials at the scene immediately alerted the ambulance crew to stop after noticing the situation. Emergency responders promptly assessed the victim and provided initial care before transferring her to a public health facility for further evaluation.
Authorities disclosed that the woman sustained bruises and complained of chest pains. However, she was stabilised at the scene, with her vital signs confirmed to be stable. She is currently receiving medical care and is said to be responding positively to treatment.
“The patient is stable and under close professional supervision,” the statement noted, adding that the Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Sports Commission are closely monitoring the situation.
Senior government officials were said to have also visited the hospital as part of ongoing oversight.
The government assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the precise circumstances that led to the incident and to ensure that all safety protocols were adhered to during the event.
Earlier in the day, a video that circulated widely on social media appeared to show the moment the ambulance struck an individual during the race, sparking concern among spectators and participants.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, one of Africa’s largest road races, typically attracts thousands of elite and amateur runners, alongside significant public attendance, making safety coordination and emergency response a critical component of event management.
Authorities have pledged transparency in the investigative process and reiterated their commitment to public safety at major sporting events in the state.