A devastating road accident on Saturday morning along the Owo-Ikare Akoko Expressway in Abule Panu village, Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, has claimed the lives of 13 individuals. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ondo Sector Command, confirmed the incident, describing it as one of the most tragic accidents in the area.
Details of the Incident
The collision, which occurred at approximately 10:14 am, involved two buses in a head-on crash. Both vehicles immediately burst into flames, incinerating the occupants. According to Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, the Sector Commander of the FRSC, the accident resulted in 13 fatalities, with the victims burnt beyond recognition.
One person miraculously survived the crash but sustained severe injuries.
Eyewitness Accounts
Preliminary reports suggest that the bus traveling from the Ikare axis experienced a tire burst, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle then collided with another bus traveling from the Owo axis, which was loaded with fabric.
“The impact of the collision was so intense that both buses caught fire almost immediately, leaving little chance for the occupants to escape,” Ibitoye stated.
Emergency Response
The FRSC, alongside officers from the Ondo State Police Command and the State Fire Service, responded promptly to the accident. Rescue efforts focused on extinguishing the flames and recovering the victims.
The lone survivor was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo for urgent medical attention. Meanwhile, the remains of the deceased were taken to the hospital’s morgue.
A Tragic Reminder
Dr. Ibitoye lamented the tragic loss of lives and urged road users to prioritize vehicle maintenance and adhere to safety guidelines. He emphasized the critical role of tire checks, especially before embarking on long journeys, to prevent accidents caused by tire bursts.
Community and Government Reactions
The incident has sparked mourning in the local community, with calls for enhanced road safety measures and infrastructure improvements along the Owo-Ikare Akoko Expressway.
As investigations continue into the cause of the accident, authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and comply with traffic regulations to avoid such devastating incidents.
The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences of negligence or mechanical failures.
