Fatal Head-On Collision on Ijebu Ode-Benin Expressway
A tragic road accident along the Ijebu Ode-Benin Expressway in Ogun State has claimed the lives of at least three people, with three others sustaining injuries. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, August 5, at approximately 5 a.m., when a crane without a number plate collided head-on with a Benz truck bearing registration number LG 59 BLF.
The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) confirmed the accident, stating that the crane driver was driving against traffic at high speed, which led to the collision with the truck that was traveling in its rightful lane. The impact of the crash was severe, resulting in multiple casualties.
Details of the Accident and Casualties
According to the Public Relations Officer of TRACE, Babatunde Akinbiyi, six people were involved in the accident, comprising three males and three females. Tragically, two males and one female lost their lives, while the three surviving males sustained injuries and were rushed to Babcock University Hospital in Ilisan Remo for medical treatment. The bodies of the deceased were deposited at the morgue of the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu.
Akinbiyi stated, “According to an eyewitness account, the crane driver drove against traffic, coupled with excessive speed. This led to a head-on collision with the Benz truck travelling in its rightful lane.” He further noted, “There were six occupants in the two vehicles, three males and three females. Three males were injured, while two males and one female died in the accident.”
Traffic Diversion and Investigation
The accident necessitated the diversion of traffic from Delabo Junction to the second lane, under the close monitoring of TRACE operatives, to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure the safety of other road users. The agency has launched an investigation into the incident, which highlights the dangers of reckless driving, particularly driving against traffic, which is a leading cause of fatal accidents on Nigerian highways.
This incident underscores the critical need for strict enforcement of traffic regulations and the importance of driver education to prevent such tragedies. TRACE continues to urge motorists to adhere to traffic rules and avoid excessive speeding to ensure the safety of all road users.
