At least seven persons have been confirmed dead, while two others were critically injured in a multiple accident that occurred on Monday along the Ibadan – Lagos expressway.
Our correspondent gathered that the accident, which happened around 3 a.m. at the Kaara-Ibafo-Lagos corridor of the expressway in the Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, involved three vehicles: two unmarked trucks: a white HOWO CNG/CIMC ENRIC; a white MACK trailer and a Mitsubishi Canter with registration plate number: JJJ 920 YA.
Spokesman for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Afolabi Odunsi, who confirmed the accident to reporters on Monday, said the seven victims died on the spot. In comparison, the two other injured victims were evacuated by personnel of the Ogun State Ambulance Service (OGSAS) for medical attention.
Odunsi, and FRSC Superintendent Route Commander, attributed the probable cause of the accident to overspeeding on the part of all three vehicles involved.
“The FRSC Ibafo Outpost Command received the report at about 04:04hrs and arrived at the scene at 04:09hrs, representing a response time of approximately five minutes.
“The crash was classified as a fatal multiple road traffic crash, with speed violation (SPV) identified as the probable cause, subject to further investigation”.
Odunsi, however, disclosed that the crashed vehicles have been handed over to the Motor Traffic Division (MTD) of the Nigeria Police Force in Ibafo for further necessary action.
“The Sector Commander Corps Commander Oludare Ogunjobi, therefore, urges motorists, particularly drivers of articulated vehicles, to avoid excessive speed, maintain safe following distances and remain vigilant at all times.
“Motorists are also advised to exercise extra caution when driving at night, as reduced visibility and fatigue can increase the risk of road traffic crashes”.
