Tragedy struck along the Owo-Ikare highway on Saturday as a fatal accident claimed the lives of 13 passengers, leaving one critically injured.
The Federal Road Safety Corps Ondo State Sector Command disclosed this in a statement issued by its Sector Commander, Dr. Samuel Ibitoye.
The accident, which occurred at approximately 10:14 a.m. near Abule Panu, involved two buses and resulted in a fire that consumed both vehicles.
Dr. Ibitoye explained, “The crash involved 14 individuals, out of whom 13 were burnt beyond recognition, while one survivor sustained serious injuries. The injured victim has been transported to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo for treatment, and the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the hospital’s morgue.”
According to eyewitnesses, the incident was triggered by a tyre burst on one of the buses, leading to a loss of control. The vehicle subsequently collided head-on with another bus carrying fabric.
“Immediately after the collision, both buses were engulfed in flames,” Dr. Ibitoye said. “Emergency responders, including the FRSC, police, and fire service, arrived promptly to manage the situation.”
The FRSC Sector Commander urged drivers to prioritize road safety and vehicle maintenance to prevent such avoidable tragedies. “Patience and proper vehicle upkeep are critical to ensuring safe journeys,” he advised.
