At least 16 people have been confirmed dead in a tragic road accident along the Lokoja–Okene highway in Kogi State. The crash, which occurred around 9:20 a.m. on Friday near Aku village close to the Osara axis, also left six others injured.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement from counter-insurgency expert and security consultant Zagazola Makama, the accident involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BUU 17 ZD. The vehicle was carrying 22 passengers—21 males and one female—traveling from Jos, Plateau State, to Lagos.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the bus veered off the road at high speed and plunged under a bridge, resulting in multiple fatalities. The crash has been attributed to driver fatigue.
“Sixteen occupants—15 males and one female—died in the incident, while six others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” the statement read.
Emergency Response
Emergency responders arrived at the scene after a distress call and evacuated the injured victims to health facilities in Osara and the Specialist Hospital in Lokoja for treatment. The bodies of the deceased were deposited at the Ankuri Mortuary in Lokoja.
Safety Advisory
Authorities have urged motorists to adhere strictly to speed limits, rest adequately during long journeys, and comply with all road safety regulations to prevent further loss of lives. This incident underscores the dangers of driver fatigue and the need for vigilance on highways.
