A horrific auto crash on the Okene Bypass of the Okene-Lokoja Highway in Kogi State has resulted in the loss of at least 19 lives, according to reports from the Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Assistant Corps Marshal Jonas Agwu.
The fatal accident, which occurred on Sunday, involved a collision between a Dangote Cement truck and a Toyota Hiace bus, plunging both vehicles into a devastating inferno.
Agwu revealed that the crash, caused by route violation and wrongful overtaking, claimed the lives of 19 out of the 22 persons involved. The Toyota bus, en route from Kano, was tragically struck head-on by the Dangote truck, which was traveling from Port Harcourt.
Despite the valiant efforts of FRSC operatives battling through the raging flames, it took three grueling hours to rescue the two surviving victims from the wreckage. Remarkably, the survivors escaped unscathed due to their compliance with traffic regulations regarding the use of seatbelts.
Agwu emphasized the importance of adherence to traffic rules in preventing further tragedies on Nigerian roads, stressing the need for strict enforcement and compliance.
The corpses of the deceased have been transferred to Okene General Hospital, while the injured victim is receiving medical attention.
In response to the incident, Agwu assured that the driver of the Dangote truck would face prosecution in accordance with directives from the Corps Marshal, Alhaji Dauda Ali-Biu. Ali-Biu has previously urged collaboration among the judiciary, transport unions, and other stakeholders to expedite and ensure effective prosecution, aiming to enhance road safety across Nigeria.
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