Four Killed as Bus Hits Stationary Truck
By Wolimoh Abdulmateen
Not fewer than four people lost their lives in a tragic motor accident on Sunday along the Lokoja-Ajaokuta road in Kogi State. The crash involved an 18-seater Toyota commercial bus and a stationary truck.
The Kogi State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Tenimu Etuku, told journalists on Monday that eleven other passengers were injured and have been receiving treatment at the Kogi State Specialist Hospital.
The accident occurred at Jimgbe Community in Ajaokuta Local Government Area. FRSC personnel rescued the injured and transported them to the hospital, while the four deceased were deposited at the hospital morgue.
Etuku explained that the bus, with Abuja registration number ABC 232 XA, was traveling from Enugu to Abuja when the incident happened.
According to him, the driver swerved to avoid a head-on collision with an oncoming vehicle but ended up hitting a stationary truck that was faulty.
The FRSC sector commander described the accident as “very unfortunate” and urged all motorists to remain vigilant while driving.
He emphasized that a free road does not necessarily mean it is a safe road. “There is a big difference between a free motoring environment and a safe motoring environment,” he said.
Etuku warned that drivers must always stay alert and be prepared for unexpected obstacles or hazards on highways.
He advised motorists to keep a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid risky maneuvers, especially in areas with high traffic or faulty road equipment.
The sector commander also reminded drivers to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained to reduce the risk of accidents.
Emergency responders, including FRSC personnel, were commended for their swift action in rescuing the injured and transporting them to medical facilities.
Etuku concluded by urging Nigerians to observe traffic rules, drive responsibly, and support efforts to reduce road crashes and fatalities across the state.