No fewer than 13 people have lost their lives in a devastating road accident at Ikare-Akoko/Owo Road, area of Ondo State.
The fatal crash, which occurred on Saturday approximately 10:14am at Abule Panu, before Ose Bridge, on the Owo-Ikare highway, involved two buses carrying a total of 14 people.
PIJAlance learnt that 13 of the commuters were burnt beyond recognition, while only one person was rescued alive, albeit with serious injuries.
The Ondo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, confirmed the incident.
In a statement on Saturday, Ibitoye expressed regret over the loss of lives in the tragic accident.
The statement partly read: “FRSC regrets to inform the public about a road traffic crash that occurred today December 28, at Abule Panu before Ose Bridge, on Owo-Ikare highway, Ondo State.
“The fatal crash which occurred at about 10:14 a.m. claimed 13 lives of commuters in two buses.
“A total of 14 people were involved, out of which 13 were burnt beyond recognition, while only one was rescued alive with serious injuries.
“Eyewitness account indicates that the bus coming from Ikare axis had a tyre burst which led to loss of control.
“This was resultant in a head-on collision with the bus loaded with fabric coming from Owo axis.
“Immediately after the collision, the two buses went up in flames. The men of FRSC, Police and Fire Service were swiftly at the crash scene for rescue,” he said.
The Sector Commander, however, revealed that the injured victim had been taken to Federal Medical Centre, Owo, while the deceased were deposited at the morgue of the same hospital.
He, therefore, advised drivers to exercise patience on the roads and passionately maintain their vehicles.
“Passengers are also encouraged to speak out against dangerous driving because road safety is a concern of all,” Ibitoye said.
Agency Report
PIJAlance Magazine, is an independent public-centric journalism arm of PIJA Foundation that stands to tell stories connecting the masses to community justice and development. We always rebel against social injustice. Got a story you'll like us to publish, tip us in contact us.