LOKOJA — Tragedy struck along the Lokoja-Okene road in Kogi State as four passengers lost their lives and two others sustained severe injuries in a lone accident involving an articulated vehicle on Monday evening. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the incident, attributing the cause to excessive speed and brake failure.
The FRSC Sector Commander in Kogi, Mr. Samuel Oyedeji, disclosed the details to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lokoja on Tuesday. According to Oyedeji, the accident occurred around 7:20 p.m. opposite the Produce, Falele area, when the truck crashed into the concrete road divider, leading to the tragic loss of lives.
“The victims were all passengers of the ill-fated truck,” Oyedeji stated, expressing concern over the recurrent incidents of speed-related accidents on the Lokoja-Okene route.
Swift Response, But Lives Lost
Upon receiving a distress call, the FRSC swiftly deployed a rescue team to the scene. However, their efforts were in vain for four of the passengers who had already succumbed to their injuries. Two others, who survived with severe fractures and bruises, were immediately rushed to Honey Gold Hospital for urgent medical attention.
“Unfortunately, four people were already dead when we got there, while two others sustained serious injuries and bruises,” Oyedeji reported. “The two persons who sustained fractures were rescued and rushed to the hospital.”
The corpses of the deceased were subsequently evacuated to the mortuary at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
Call for Caution on the Roads
In the wake of the accident, Oyedeji reiterated the FRSC’s warning to motorists to exercise caution, emphasizing the importance of regular vehicle checks, especially brake systems, before embarking on any journey.
He urged drivers to adhere strictly to speed limits and avoid reckless driving, noting that the increasing number of accidents on the Lokoja-Okene road was a cause for concern.
“Motorists must avoid excessive speed and always ensure their vehicles, particularly the brakes, are in proper working condition,” the sector commander advised.
The incident has left the local community in shock, with residents and witnesses expressing grief over the tragic loss of lives. Many have called for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As investigations continue into the exact circumstances of the accident, the FRSC’s appeal for caution and responsible driving resonates strongly, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety practices on Nigeria’s roads.
