Tragic Boxing Day Crash on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway: 2 Dead, 15 Injured in Bus Accident

By Achimi muktar

A Boxing Day journey turned tragic on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as a lone crash involving a Toyota Hiace bus claimed two lives and left 15 others injured. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the heartbreaking incident, which occurred at Saapade in Ogun State on Thursday afternoon.

What Happened?

The crash, reported at 4:34 p.m., was caused by a tyre blowout that resulted in the driver losing control of the vehicle. The bus, marked LSR 585 YH, somersaulted before coming to a devastating halt.

Florence Okpe, the FRSC spokesperson in Ogun State, revealed that the bus was carrying 18 passengers, including nine men, five women, two boys, and two girls. The blowout tragically turned their holiday travel into a scene of chaos and grief.

Casualties and Rescue Efforts

Of the 18 passengers, two—a man and a woman—lost their lives on the spot. Fifteen others sustained varying degrees of injuries:

8 men

4 women

2 boys

1 girl

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, rushing the injured to PATMAG Hospital in Ogere for medical care. The bodies of the deceased were taken to the morgue at the State General Hospital in Isara.

FRSC’s Call for Vigilance

In the wake of the accident, FRSC Ogun Sector Commander, Akinwunmi Fasakin, issued a plea to motorists to prioritize vehicle maintenance, especially during periods of high traffic like the holiday season.

“Regular checks on tyres and other vehicle components can prevent tragedies like this. Drivers must stay vigilant and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on journeys,” Fasakin emphasized.

A Grim Reminder on the Roads

The Boxing Day crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk on Nigeria’s roads, particularly during festive periods marked by increased travel. As the holiday season continues, authorities urge caution, hoping to prevent further loss of lives.

Motorists are encouraged to observe speed limits, avoid overloading, and prioritize safety to ensure their journeys end in celebration rather than tragedy.