Multiple Vehicle Collision Leaves 15 Injured on Sagamu-Ikorodu Expressway
No fewer than 15 people sustained various injuries during a multiple auto crash that occurred on Monday at Omoyele Junction along the busy Sagamu–Ikorodu Expressway in Ogun State. The serious incident involved four different vehicles including an unregistered Mack truck, a Toyota Highlander with registration number AKD 29 JZ, a Suzuki minibus commonly known as korope, and a motorcycle.
Official Confirmation and Cause of Accident
The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) confirmed the unfortunate incident through its spokesperson, Babatunde Akinbiyi, who released an official statement on Tuesday in Abeokuta. According to the traffic authority's investigation, the collision resulted from excessive speeding by the truck driver combined with sudden brake failure.
The truck driver lost control of the vehicle when the brakes reportedly malfunctioned, causing the large truck to violently collide with the other vehicles on the road. Emergency responders immediately rushed to the scene to provide medical assistance to all affected persons.
Rescue Operations and Victim Details
All 15 injured victims, consisting of 12 males and 3 females, received prompt medical attention at the scene. TRACE operatives collaborated with police officers to conduct efficient rescue operations, ensuring all victims were properly cared for despite the chaotic situation.
The damaged vehicles were subsequently towed away from the expressway, allowing normal traffic flow to resume in the area. The quick response from emergency services helped prevent more serious consequences and ensured the injured received timely medical care.
Separate Truck Accident on Ijebu-Ode-Benin Expressway
In a related development, another serious road incident occurred on Monday at Ijagun, along the Ijebu-Ode–Benin Expressway. This involved a lone truck carrying containers that crashed, causing significant traffic disruption as the vehicle blocked the entire roadway.
Operatives of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) responded to this second incident, rescuing the victims and transporting them to the General Hospital in Ijebu-Ode for medical treatment. TRACE officials created a diversion at the Ijagun Express Junction to manage traffic flow for both inward and outward-bound motorists.
Police Arrest Suspected Cultist in Igbesa
Meanwhile, Ogun State Police have made progress in combating crime with the arrest of a 24-year-old suspected cultist identified as Sulaimon Laja. The suspect was allegedly terrorizing residents of the Igbesa community in Ado-Odo/Ota local government area and its surroundings.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, confirmed the arrest in a statement released in Abeokuta on Tuesday. According to the police, the suspect, who is a member of the Aiye confraternity, had attempted to disguise himself to avoid detection by law enforcement officers.
Police officers spotted the suspect in his fake appearance and immediately apprehended him. They then compelled him to lead them to his group's hideout, where a thorough search resulted in the recovery of a single-barreled gun as evidence.
The suspect reportedly confessed to numerous cult-related activities and crimes committed by his group, whose other members are currently on the run. Laja provided valuable information to the police about the identity of his accomplices, prompting the police command to launch a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.
Road Safety Advisory
The TRACE spokesperson used the opportunity to advise all drivers to maintain safe speeds and ensure their vehicles are properly maintained to prevent similar accidents. He emphasized the importance of defensive driving and regular vehicle maintenance checks, particularly brake system inspections, to avoid collisions with stationary vehicles and prevent avoidable crashes on Ogun State roads.
These back-to-back incidents highlight the continuing challenges facing road safety and security in Ogun State, prompting calls for improved vehicle maintenance culture and enhanced security measures across the state.
