Tragic Ogun Auto Crash: 16 Burnt to Death as Gas Cylinder Explodes on Moving Bus
Sixteen individuals lost their lives in a vehicular accident along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway in Ogun State, Nigeria. The crash occurred near Buhari Estate in the Kobape area at approximately 1:00 p.m. and involved a commercial bus bearing the registration number KJA 949 YJ.
The ill-fated bus was transporting 21 passengers when a gas cylinder onboard exploded, leading to a catastrophic fire that engulfed the vehicle. The explosion resulted in the immediate death of 16 passengers, who were burned beyond recognition. Three individuals sustained injuries and were promptly evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre in Idi Aba, Abeokuta, for medical attention. The remaining two passengers reportedly escaped without injuries.
Florence Okpe, the Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the incident and attributed the severity of the accident to the presence of the gas cylinder within the bus. She emphasized that such incidents could be prevented if drivers refrained from transporting hazardous materials alongside passengers.
The FRSC Sector Commander, CC Akinwunmi Fasakin, participated in the rescue operations and expressed deep regret over the tragic loss of lives. He reiterated the dangers associated with carrying inflammable substances in passenger vehicles and called for stricter adherence to safety regulations to prevent future occurrences.
This incident underscores the critical need for stringent enforcement of safety protocols concerning the transportation of hazardous materials. Passengers and drivers alike must be educated on the risks associated with carrying gas cylinders and other inflammable items in vehicles not designed for such purposes.
The FRSC continues to advocate for defensive driving practices and adherence to safety guidelines to mitigate the frequency and severity of road accidents in Nigeria.
The Ogun State government and relevant authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into this incident to implement measures that will enhance road safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This devastating event serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting safety protocols on the roadways.