'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER — A dark cloud hung over the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Saturday as a fatal road crash in the Gbara area of Ogun State claimed the lives of 17 persons, including one of the agency’s rescue operatives deployed to the accident scene.
The tragedy, which occurred at exactly 4:00 PM according to a statement today by the Corp's Spokesperson Oluwasegun Ogungbemide, involved seven vehicles and was blamed on excessive speeding and brake failure. The incident has sparked renewed calls for strict adherence to traffic regulations and vehicle maintenance.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “tragic and unacceptable.” He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and urged road users to take responsibility for their actions on the road.
“This is a dark moment for the Corps and the nation,” he lamented. “We cannot continue to lose lives due to avoidable crashes. Speeding is a silent killer. I urge all motorists to respect speed limits and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.”
Details released by the FRSC revealed that the multiple-vehicle crash involved a white DAF truck with registration number T14007LA, a Toyota Hiace bus (AGL752YC), a Honda Saloon car (HET680), a Nissan Police Pick-up Van (STF10204), two Bajaj motorcycles (AGG448Q and PKA214WS), and an unregistered white DAF truck.
A total of 18 individuals were involved in the crash, comprising 12 male adults, five female adults, and one female child. Of these, 17 victims—11 men, five women, and the child—were confirmed dead, while one person was rescued with injuries.
Reacting to the loss of the FRSC marshal who died in active service, the Corps Marshal vowed that the driver responsible for the crash would be prosecuted in accordance with the law. He stressed the importance of accountability in curbing traffic-related fatalities.
“We will not tolerate reckless behavior behind the wheel,” he said. “Justice will be pursued, and every driver found culpable in such fatal incidents will face the full wrath of the law.”
Mohammed also emphasized the Corps’ commitment to continuous public enlightenment and enforcement of traffic laws. He called on motorists, pedestrians, and transport stakeholders to support the FRSC’s crusade against reckless driving, especially speeding.
“Our roads must be made safer for everyone. This campaign requires the collective effort of all Nigerians. Let us honour the memories of the departed by driving responsibly and obeying traffic regulations,” he added.
The Federal Road Safety Corps reaffirmed its determination to intensify safety awareness and prevent future occurrences of such devastating incidents.
