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FRSC Condemns Tragic Road Accident Claiming 19 Lives in Kwara State

Written by Jerry Alomatu on June 14, 2024

News Views: 80

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has strongly condemned the reckless driving practices that resulted in the loss of 19 lives in Kwara State. The incident, which occurred on Thursday at 8 pm at Kanbi village along the Olooru new Jebba road, serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences of flouting traffic regulations.

Expressing dismay over the incident, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by drivers who disregard safety standards, leading to unnecessary fatalities and extensive property damage.

Preliminary investigations into the incident revealed that the collision involved a blue Iveco trailer and a white Toyota Hiace bus, triggered by dangerous speeding and ill-advised overtaking maneuvers.

According to a statement by FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide on Friday, the tragic incident resulted in “19 fatalities, including 11 adult males, three adult females, three male children, and two female children.” Additionally, five individuals sustained injuries and were promptly transported to Orisun Ayo Hospital for urgent medical attention.

The statement further revealed that one victim was placed in the hospital morgue, while families claimed the remains of the other 18 deceased individuals.

Despite concerted efforts such as the establishment of an Inter-agency Joint Task Force and intensified public awareness campaigns, the FRSC expressed disappointment at the persistent disregard for road safety regulations among some drivers.

“It is therefore unfortunate that irrespective of all the efforts in place, some drivers have decided not to adhere to safety standards, thus compromising the safety of innocent road users,” the spokesperson added.

In line with the Corps Marshal’s agenda for a drastic reduction in road carnage in 2024, Commanding Officers have been directed to intensify special patrol operations against identified violations.