Concerned by the alarming number of fatalities on Nigerian roads due to poor driving habits, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has issued a stern call to action. He urged drivers and all road users to prioritize safety by adhering strictly to road traffic regulations. Mohammed emphasized the urgent need to cultivate a culture of responsible road use and resist any impulse to violate established traffic laws, as the consequences are often tragic.This is coming on the heels of the fatal crashes which happened in Ibadan.
According to a press statement e-signed and issued to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Public Education Officer, CC Olusegun Ogungbemide, voiced strong condemnation of the reckless driving habits exhibited by certain drivers on the nation’s major highways. The Road Safety Chief expressed deep concern over the increasing disregard for traffic regulations, highlighting the urgent need for improved road safety practices across the country.
The FRSC Corps Marshal extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims involved in two tragic crashes. The first accident occurred at Ajao, opposite the Bovas fuel station on the Ojoo/Iwo road, while the second took place at Malo, both on the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.
On August 13, 2024, at approximately 09:20 AM in Ibadan, a devastating accident occurred involving four vehicles. A White Mack Truck (AKM 548 ZY) experienced brake failure, leading it to lose control and collide with three other vehicles. The impact involved a White Nissan Bus (MUB 20 LG), a Red Nissan Micra (BDJ 520 YC), and a Blue Honda CRV (KRD 707 ER). The crash, caused by the truck’s malfunction, created a chaotic scene, with the vehicles severely damaged in the aftermath.
At 15:14, a fatal crash occurred involving a white Mazda bus with the registration DDA 733XA. The driver, attempting a dangerous overtaking maneuver, lost control of the vehicle, leading to a catastrophic collision.
The tragic crash in Ibadan claimed the lives of 16 people, leaving 17 others injured. Among the 35 individuals involved were 14 men, 10 women, 6 girls, and 5 boys. Emergency responders reported that the survivors suffered varying degrees of injuries, while the community mourns the devastating loss of life.
The tragic accident in Malo involved 16 people: 12 men, 3 women, and a young girl. Sadly, 12 lost their lives, including 8 men, 3 women, and the child. Miraculously, 4 men were rescued, though they sustained injuries.
Following the tragic crash in Ibadan, the survivors were swiftly transported to Amudalat Hospital for urgent medical care. Meanwhile, the deceased were respectfully conveyed to the Nigeria Police Force Divisional Office in Ibadan for proper handling.
The remains of the 12 individuals who tragically lost their lives in the recent crash have been taken to the FOS Morgue in Ipara, where they await identification and further examination
In conclusion however, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is ramping up its collaboration with the judiciary to hold drivers accountable for fatal accidents. This enhanced partnership aims not only to revoke licenses but also to ensure that offenders face stringent legal consequences. In a decisive move, the FRSC has ordered the immediate apprehension of the driver of the articulated vehicle involved in a recent fatal crash. This driver, currently on the run, will be pursued vigorously to face prosecution and answer for their actions.
