At least 10 people were killed and six others injured in a road crash at the Saapade Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). The accident involved a white Sinotruk truck with an unknown registration number and a white Toyota Hiace bus with registration number EKY 290 YM.
Details of the Crash
Afolabi Odunsin, Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Sector Command of the FRSC, stated that a total of 18 persons were involved in the crash, comprising 15 adult males, 2 adult females, and 1 male child. “Sadly, 10 persons lost their lives, comprising 9 adult males and 1 male child, while 6 persons (4 adult males and 2 adult females) sustained varying degrees of injuries. Two adult males escaped unhurt,” he said.
Cause of the Accident
Preliminary investigation revealed that the crash was caused by speed violation, wrongful overtaking, and dangerous driving. According to the Corps, the truck driver reportedly reversed on the highway after missing his direction, while the approaching bus, travelling at high speed, attempted to navigate through the limited space available and rammed into the truck.
Rescue and Response
FRSC rescue operatives arrived promptly at the scene and evacuated the injured victims to Victory Hospital, Ogere, for medical treatment, while the deceased were deposited at FOS Mortuary, Ipara. Personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, Ishara Division, have taken custody of the crashed vehicles, while arrangements have been made for their evacuation.
Official Statement and Safety Warning
The Ogun State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Oludare Ogunjobi, expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He cautioned motorists, particularly commercial drivers and truck operators, against reversing on highways, speeding, reckless driving, and other traffic violations that put lives at risk. The Ogun Sector Command urged all road users to strictly comply with traffic regulations, maintain safe speeds, and use designated turning points whenever they miss their routes, stressing that adherence to these safety measures would help prevent avoidable fatalities on the nation's highways.
