By Our Reporter
Thirteen lives were tragically lost in a devastating road traffic crash on the Owo-Ikare highway in Ondo State on Saturday morning.
The crash, which occurred at approximately 10:14am near Abule Panu before Ose Bridge, involved two buses in a catastrophic head-on collision that resulted in both vehicles bursting into flames.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ondo State Sector Command, 14 individuals were involved in the crash. Thirteen were burnt beyond recognition, while one survivor was rescued with severe injuries and rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for adequate medical attention.
In a statement released on the accident on Saturday, Dr Samuel Ibitoye, the Sector Commander of FRSC Ondo State, expressed deep regret over the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
“This tragic accident underscores the urgent need for all road users to prioritise safety and proper vehicle maintenance. Road safety is not just the responsibility of drivers; passengers also play a vital role in speaking out against dangerous driving,” Ibitoye stated.
Eyewitness reports indicate that the crash was triggered when one of the buses, travelling from the Ikare axis, suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control.
The vehicle was said to have collided head-on with a fabric-laden bus coming from the Owo axis. The impact was so severe that both buses were engulfed in flames almost instantly.
It was gathered that emergency responders, including personnel from the FRSC, the police, and the fire service, were quick to arrive at the scene.
Their swift action ensured the injured victim received prompt medical attention and the deceased were transported to the morgue at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo.
Dr Ibitoye reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to reducing road accidents through continued advocacy, enforcement, and collaboration with other agencies.
He urged drivers to exercise patience, conduct regular vehicle maintenance, and adhere to speed limits.
“We all have a shared responsibility to ensure our roads are safe for everyone,” he emphasised.
