A devastating auto crash in the Amuloko area of Ibadan in Oyo State claimed the lives of six people and left five others seriously injured on Monday morning.
The accident, which involved two trucks, a tricycle, and a commercial motorcycle (Okada), occurred when a trailer lost control while descending a steep slope, causing a fatal collision.
Eyewitnesses reported that among the victims were schoolchildren and a mother who was taking her child to school. While the pupil survived with minor injuries, the mother tragically lost her life. Several students were also involved, with two being rushed to Amuloko City Hospital for treatment.
The accident unfolded when the trailer’s brake system failed, causing it to crash into a tricycle and another truck. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but many of the victims had already succumbed to their injuries.
An eyewitness described the scene as chaotic, stating: “When the trailer lost control, it crushed a tricycle. Another lorry conveying soft drinks was coming from behind it and tried to avoid hitting the trailer in front, and in the process hit and crushed another tricycle.”
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The accident caused significant traffic disruption in the area. Vehicles were left damaged on the road, leading to a serious gridlock as passengers exited their vehicles and walked away from the scene. Local residents expressed their outrage at the drivers involved, suggesting that swerving into a ditch might have mitigated the impact of the crash.
Mary Alo, the state Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission, confirmed that an accident had occurred but indicated she would provide more detailed information once her team had fully briefed her on the situation.
Meanwhile, police officials have also stated that further investigations are underway to ascertain all details surrounding this tragic event. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about road safety in Nigeria, particularly involving heavy vehicles and their maintenance. As families mourn their losses and others recover from injuries, calls for improved safety measures on Nigerian roads are likely to intensify in light of this tragedy.
Credible News.ng