Tragic Accident on Edo’s Benin-Lagos Expressway Claims 11 Lives

Edo State, Nigeria – A horrific road accident on the Benin-Lagos expressway claimed the lives of 11 individuals while leaving eight others with varying degrees of injuries.

The incident occurred on Thursday around 11 am, at the notorious Ovia bridge, known for its history of accidents resulting from a failed section of the road and the poor condition of the bridge spanning the river.

According to eyewitnesses, the collision involved a Toyota Hiace 18-seater bus and a truck owned by Dangote Cement. The bus, en route to the east and bound for Edo State, had slowed down upon reaching the dilapidated section of the Ovia river bridge. However, the Dangote truck, traveling from Lagos to Benin at a high speed, crashed into the bus, resulting in the immediate loss of 11 lives and multiple injuries.

A witness recounted, “The Toyota Hiace bus going to the east en route Edo State slowed down at the bad portion of the Ovia river bridge, but the Dangote truck that was on top speed rammed into it, killing some passengers and injuring others.”

Reports indicate that the occupants of the bus were returning from Lagos after attending a program organized by a popular church based in the city.

Confirming the tragic incident, Paul Okpe, the Edo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), stated, “We had a crash on the bridge at Ovia River this morning. A truck ran into a Toyota Hummer Bus, and 11 persons lost their lives, while eight persons were injured. Both the deceased and the injured were transported to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital by our ambulances. Three vehicles were involved.”

Okpe further explained that the truck collided with the Hummer bus, narrowly avoiding a Kia vehicle. Currently, the three vehicles are under police custody near the Toll Gate, not far from the FRSC office. The Accident Investigations department will determine the exact cause of the accident.

The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the pressing need for infrastructural improvements and stringent safety measures on Nigeria’s roads. Authorities are urged to take swift action to address the hazardous conditions and prevent further loss of lives in similar accidents.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims, while we hope for a speedy recovery for those injured in this devastating accident.