By: Bayero Ade
A devastating road accident along the Owo-Ikare highway in Ondo State has claimed the lives of 13 individuals on Saturday.
According to Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ondo State, the crash involved 14 people, with only one person surviving the incident with severe injuries.
In a statement, Dr. Ibitoye said:
“The Federal Road Safety Corps, Ondo State Sector Command regrets to announce a fatal road crash that occurred on December 28, 2024, at Abule Panu near Ose Bridge on the Owo-Ikare highway.
“The incident, which happened around 10:14 a.m., involved two buses and resulted in the death of 13 commuters, who were burned beyond recognition. Of the 14 individuals involved, only one survived and is currently being treated at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo.”
Eyewitnesses reported that a bus traveling from the Ikare axis suffered a tire burst, leading to a loss of control and a head-on collision with another bus carrying fabric from the Owo axis. Both vehicles caught fire following the collision.
Emergency responders, including the FRSC, police, and fire service personnel, promptly arrived at the scene to assist. The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre morgue in Owo.
The FRSC has advised drivers to ensure proper vehicle maintenance and to exercise caution while on the road. Passengers are also encouraged to speak up against reckless driving, as road safety is a shared responsibility.
Investigations into the tragic incident are ongoing.
Leave a Reply