A multiple-vehicle accident on the Ore-Benin Road has resulted in the loss of 11 lives, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). The incident occurred at kilometer 20 of the Ovia Bridge in Edo State on Thursday morning.
In a statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer, Bisi Kazeem, it was revealed that the accident involved a total of 19 people, including 10 male adults, eight female adults, and one female child. Among them, three female adults, seven male adults, and one female child lost their lives, while eight individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries.
The collision involved three vehicles: a Dangote trailer at the rear, a Kia saloon car with registration number LSD553HY that was brushed aside, and a Toyota Hiace Bus with registration number KET779AV in front.
Preliminary investigations conducted by the FRSC indicated that the accident was caused by a brake failure, resulting in a loss of control. The injured victims were promptly evacuated to the Saving Grace Hospital in Ovbiogie, Benin, while the deceased were taken to the mortuary at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
In response to the tragic incident, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Dauda Biu, called on drivers to be vigilant and avoid negligence when encountering mechanical faults in their vehicles. He emphasized the importance of regular maintenance to prevent unnecessary accidents that can lead to loss of life and property damage.
Furthermore, the Corps Marshal directed a thorough technical investigation into the immediate and underlying causes of the accident. This investigation aims to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the incident.
The FRSC urges all road users to prioritize safety, exercise caution, and adhere to traffic rules and regulations to prevent avoidable accidents on the roads.