No fewer than six people have lost their lives, and 60 others sustained injuries in a devastating road accident in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State. The incident occurred on Tuesday at about 3 p.m. near the Zone 8 Roundabout along Hassan Katsina Road.
The Accident Scene
According to the State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Samuel Oyedeji, the accident was caused by an articulated truck traveling from Bauchi to Enugu State that lost control, resulting in a catastrophic crash.
“The remains of the six deceased were deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital mortuary,” Oyedeji confirmed.
Eyewitness accounts described a chaotic and horrifying scene as first responders worked tirelessly to rescue victims and clear the wreckage. A resident who spoke anonymously said, “It was a horrific sight. People were trapped, and it took hours to clear the scene.”
Calls for Road Safety and Infrastructure Improvements
Following the tragedy, Oyedeji urged drivers, particularly those operating heavy-duty vehicles, to exercise extreme caution. He also called on the government to address the state of road infrastructure and strengthen traffic regulation enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“As investigations continue into the cause of the accident, Nigerians are reminded of the shared responsibility to ensure safer roads for all,” he added.
Previous Accidents in Kogi State
This incident is a grim reminder of the frequent road accidents in Kogi State. On April 1, 2024, another tragic accident claimed the lives of 13 people, leaving two others injured.
The earlier crash involved a commercial Sharon bus and an articulated cement truck near Obajana Market along the Obajana-Lokoja Road. According to Oyedeji, the Sharon bus had parked behind a truck at the market, allowing passengers to make purchases. A cement truck with failed brakes rammed into the stationary bus, causing multiple fatalities and severe injuries.
The Need for Action
The recent accidents in Kogi State highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to improve road safety. These include:
- Regular vehicle maintenance: Ensuring trucks and heavy-duty vehicles are roadworthy to prevent brake failures and other mechanical issues.
- Enhanced road infrastructure: Upgrading roads to accommodate increasing traffic and reduce accident risks.
- Driver education and enforcement: Promoting safe driving practices and enforcing penalties for traffic violations.
The FRSC and other stakeholders must collaborate to implement these measures, reducing the frequency and severity of road accidents.
Conclusion
The tragic accident in Lokoja serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by poor road conditions, mechanical failures, and unsafe driving practices. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, there is a pressing need for action to create safer roads in Nigeria. Collaborative efforts between the government, road safety agencies, and drivers can help prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.
