..Gov Abiodun consoles families of victims, warns transporters against flammable substances
A devastating car explosion occurred on Tuesday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, leaving 16 people burned beyond recognition.
The fatal crash involved a white Mazda bus with registration number Oyo, KJA 949 YJ, and took place at the Muhammadu Buhari Estate along the Sagamu/Abeokuta expressway.
Three other persons sustained various degrees of injuries and were rushed to the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Abeokuta for medical attention.
According to FRSC, the accident was caused by a fire outbreak in the vehicle, which was exacerbated by a filled gas cylinder, leading to a massive explosion.
Florence Okpe, the Ogun State Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the incident in a statement. “A fatal crash occurred at Buhari Estate, along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway, Abeokuta, Ogun State, this afternoon at about 1300hrs.”
Okpe reported that 21 people were involved in the crash, with 16 fatalities and 3 injuries.
The victims’ genders could not be ascertained due to the severity of the burns.
The Sector Commander, CC Akinwumi Fasakin, the statement said, promptly responded to the scene with his team for rescue operations.
He however expressed disappointment and frustration with the occurrence, attributing it to the driver’s carelessness.
Fasakin emphasized the importance of transporting highly flammable items with caution and using designated vehicles driven by trained drivers.
He joined in clearing the obstruction to ensure free-flowing traffic and advised motorists and passengers to prioritize safety while using the roads.
The Sector Commander extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for God’s comfort during this difficult time.
..Gov Abiodun consoles families of victims, warns transporters against flammable substances
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has issued a stern warning to commercial vehicle operators within the state, urging them to refrain from transporting flammable materials in their vehicles to ensure the safety of passengers.
This caution follows a tragic incident involving a commercial vehicle on the Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange Expressway near the Muhammadu Buhari Estate. The accident claimed the lives of 16 individuals.
The vehicle, a white Mazda bus with registration number KJA949YJ, was reportedly carrying a filled gas cylinder, which exploded, leading to a fire outbreak.
The governor, in a statement in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, said the accident was preventable. He emphasized the critical need for stringent handling and transportation protocols regarding highly flammable substances, including gas and petroleum products.
Governor Abiodun noted the responsibility of the two major transportation unions: the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) to their members and the general public.
He called on the two organizations to educate their members about the dangers associated with the transportation of hazardous materials. This, he added, is vital in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among commercial drivers.
The governor extended heartfelt sympathies to the families of the victims, praying for divine comfort and strength to help them cope with their irreplaceable losses.
He underscored the importance of community vigilance and adherence to safety regulations in preventing such tragedies in the future.
“This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers linked to the transportation of flammable materials. As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, it is essential for all stakeholders—drivers, unions, and regulatory bodies—to work collaboratively towards ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
“The safety of passengers must remain paramount, and all necessary measures should be taken to protect lives on the roads. Only through collective efforts and a commitment to best practices can the state hope to minimize the risks associated with the transportation of dangerous goods,” the governor added.
