NEWS XTRA
ABIODUN CONDEMNS FATAL OTA TOLL GATE CRASH, ORDERS IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION
The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Ota toll gate accident that claimed six lives on Tuesday.
The tragic incident, which involved ten victims, occurred around 9:32 a.m. It involved a white-cap, green-body Mack truck (registration number EKY 913YH), a yellow Suzuki mini bus (SMK16YK), and a yellow TVS tricycle (AAA 840QM).
According to Salau H.O of the Divisional TRACE Command, Ota, the truck driver was reportedly speeding and driving recklessly, colliding with several vehicles, including the tricycle, as well as pedestrians. The driver fled the scene, while the injured were rushed to the State Hospital, Ota, and those presumed dead were taken to the State morgue in Ifo.
Governor Abiodun condemned the recklessness of truck drivers, emphasizing that anyone found culpable must face the full weight of the law. Describing the incident as “painful and unacceptable,” he extended his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for them to find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
He also urged heightened vigilance and stricter traffic enforcement by the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps to prevent a recurrence along the busy corridor.
In a related development, the Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Lawal Adewale Wasiu, visited the scene shortly after the accident with key local government officials. He received briefings from security operatives coordinating rescue and control efforts.
The chairman expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stressing the importance of strict adherence to traffic regulations. He also cautioned against roadside trading and other risky activities that endanger residents and commuters, assuring that the council would collaborate closely with relevant agencies to strengthen safety compliance along the axis.
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board