Metro

Tragic Collision on Benin-Auchi Highway Claims 12 Lives

In the early hours of Saturday, March 1, 2025, a devastating accident occurred along the Benin-Auchi highway in Edo State, resulting in the tragic loss of 12 lives. The incident involved a Toyota Hiace bus and a truck, culminating in a fiery collision that left no survivors among the bus passengers.

Details of the Incident

Time and Location: The crash transpired around 5 a.m. at Igueoviobo community, situated near an army checkpoint on the highway.
Vehicles Involved: The Toyota Hiace bus had departed from Zuba in the Federal Capital Territory, en route to Benin City. It collided head-on with a truck traveling towards Auchi.
Casualties: All 12 occupants of the bus were killed in the crash. The impact caused the bus to burst into flames, making rescue efforts futile.

Official Confirmation and Investigation

Cyril Mathew, the Edo Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the incident. Preliminary investigations suggest that driver fatigue may have played a significant role, with the bus driver possibly dozing off, leading to the collision.

Identification and Notification

Despite the severity of the fire, FRSC officials managed to retrieve the vehicle’s manifest, which facilitated the identification of the deceased passengers. Subsequently, the families of the victims were contacted and informed of the tragic event.

Survivors of the Truck

Remarkably, the driver of the truck and his assistant, commonly referred to as the “motor boy,” escaped the accident without injuries. Details regarding their statements or perspectives on the incident have not been disclosed at this time.

FRSC’s Advisory on Driver Fatigue

In light of this tragic event, the FRSC has once again emphasized the dangers of driver fatigue, especially during long-distance journeys. Drivers are strongly advised to take regular breaks and rest adequately to prevent such catastrophic accidents.

Historical Context: Road Accidents in Edo State

Edo State has witnessed a concerning number of road traffic accidents over the years. Between 1996 and 2002, the state recorded fluctuating figures in road traffic accidents and fatalities. For instance, in 1996, there were 1,336 accidents with 246 fatalities, while in 2000, 383 accidents resulted in 400 deaths.

Recent Statistics

More recently, between January and April 2024, Edo State recorded 57 road crashes involving 537 passengers. These incidents resulted in 42 deaths and 206 injuries. The primary causes identified include over-speeding, brake failure, route violations, dangerous driving, and the use of mobile phones while driving.

On a broader scale, Nigeria has seen a significant decline in road traffic crashes. In the second quarter of 2024, there were 2,404 reported cases, marking a 9.69% decrease from the previous quarter and an 18.98% drop from the same period in 2023.

Common Causes of Road Accidents

Several factors contribute to road traffic accidents in Nigeria:

Driver Fatigue: Long hours without rest can lead to reduced alertness and slower reaction times.
Over-Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces the driver’s ability to react to unforeseen events.
Mechanical Failures: Poor vehicle maintenance can result in brake failures and other critical issues.
Distracted Driving: Activities such as using mobile phones divert attention from the road.
Road Conditions: Potholes, inadequate signage, and poorly lit roads increase the risk of accidents.

Preventive Measures

To mitigate the occurrence of such tragic incidents, the following measures are recommended:

Regular Rest Breaks: Drivers should schedule breaks during long trips to rest and rejuvenate.
Adherence to Speed Limits: Strict compliance with speed regulations is crucial.
Vehicle Maintenance: Regular checks and servicing ensure vehicles are roadworthy.
Avoiding Distractions: Drivers should refrain from using mobile phones or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.
Improving Road Infrastructure: Authorities should prioritize the maintenance and upgrading of road networks to enhance safety.

Conclusion

The tragic accident on the Benin-Auchi highway serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with road travel. It underscores the urgent need for drivers to prioritize safety, remain vigilant, and adhere to best practices to prevent future occurrences.