A horrific accident claimed the lives of 16 people when a passenger bus collided with a truck along the Benin-Ore Expressway.
The accident occurred at Ajure community in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State on Wednesday night, plunging the usually busy highway into chaos as first responders raced to the scene.
According to eyewitness reports, the collision resulted in an intense fire that quickly engulfed both vehicles, leaving passengers trapped with little chance of escape. The fire raged uncontrollably, consuming the bus and truck within minutes and causing the deaths of 16 individuals, who were burnt beyond recognition.
The exact cause of the accident remains unclear, but initial investigations suggest that either speeding or a possible brake failure could have contributed to the tragic event. Road safety officials, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the police, were promptly alerted and arrived at the scene to manage the situation and begin an investigation.
FRSC officials confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been evacuated and taken to a nearby morgue, while the road has since been cleared for traffic.
Families of the victims are being contacted, and authorities have urged anyone who may have had relatives travelling on the Benin-Ore Expressway at the time to reach out for further information.
Authorities have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident and to prevent such tragedies in the future. Meanwhile, the Benin-Ore Expressway, a critical route connecting the southern and western parts of Nigeria, remains a focus for improved safety measures.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims during this difficult time.
