A tragic accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has claimed the lives of seven individuals and left eleven others injured. The incident occurred on Monday, June 24, 2024, involving a collision between a commercial bus and a truck.
Details of the Incident
The accident happened at the Onigari axis of the expressway, a notorious spot for frequent road mishaps. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash was caused by a combination of speeding and brake failure. The commercial bus, traveling at high speed, lost control and collided with a stationary truck.
Emergency Response
Emergency services, including the FRSC and the police, swiftly arrived at the scene. The injured were rushed to the nearest hospital, while the deceased were transported to the morgue. The FRSC officials emphasized the importance of adhering to speed limits and regular vehicle maintenance to prevent such tragic events.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses recounted the horrifying moments following the crash. One witness described how the bus lost control and slammed into the truck, resulting in immediate chaos. Passengers were trapped inside the mangled bus, and it took significant effort from emergency responders to extricate the injured and deceased.
Authorities’ Statements
FRSC spokesperson Florence Okpe confirmed the casualty figures and reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring road safety. She urged drivers to be cautious, especially on highways known for heavy traffic and frequent accidents.
Ongoing Investigations
An investigation into the incident has been launched to determine the exact cause and to explore measures to prevent future occurrences. Authorities are also looking into the possibility of enhancing road safety measures on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which is a major route for commuters and goods transport.
This tragic accident highlights the persistent issue of road safety in Nigeria and underscores the need for stringent enforcement of traffic regulations and better road infrastructure.
