A tragic accident in Akungba Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, claimed the lives of ten people on Wednesday night, including an expectant woman.
The accident occurred near the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), when a Dangote Cement truck reportedly lost control and veered off its lane, ploughing into bystanders along the roadside.
The Nation report that the incident, which took place near the Holy Trinity Church, has plunged the university community and residents into mourning.
Eyewitnesses said the truck, coming from Obajana in Kogi State, allegedly broke through a barricade erected to prevent articulated vehicles from accessing the university road – a measure initially implemented to prevent such tragedies.
“The trailer came from the top of the hill. It’s unclear if the barricade was opened or if it was forcefully broken. At least 10 people were killed, and we’re unsure how many more might still be under the truck,” an eyewitnesses said.
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It was gathered that emergency responders and security operatives rushed to the scene to rescue survivors and recover bodies trapped under the vehicle.
President of the AAUA Students’ Union Government (SUG), Salami Olugbon, described the accident as “unfortunate” and expressed frustration over repeated warnings about the dangers of allowing trucks access through the area.
“No student died in the incident, but it’s disheartening that this happened due to the negligence of some individuals responsible for managing the barricades. There’s been ongoing sabotage from some locals,” Olugbon said.
“The Dangote truck, reportedly suffering brake failure, broke through the permanent barricade erected at the university’s main gate. This is a painful reminder of why we have long called for articulated vehicles to stop plying Akungba roads,” he added.
He urged students to remain calm and avoid the highway for now, assuring that the union will continue to work to ensure the safety of the student community.
Confirming the crash, Ondo State FRSC Sector Commander, Samuel Ibitoye, said eight deaths had been officially recorded so far – five males, two females, and a male child.
“The truck, which was loaded with cement, lost control and rammed into pedestrians. It was a result of the driver’s recklessness,” Ibitoye said.
The road where the incident occurred had previously been modified with barricades under the administration of the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, following a series of deadly accidents involving heavy-duty trucks in the area.
