11 People Burnt, Seven Injured In Multiple Road Crashes

Tragedy struck on Thursday, along Ejule-Ochadamu by Olofu Bridge, Ochadamu in Kogi State, as no fewer than 11 people were reportedly burnt to death with seven injured in multiple road crashes.

Naija News reports that a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Bisi Kazeem, on Thursday, disclosed that the accident involved 20 vehicles including a truck, a tanker, 12 cars, and six bikes.

He noted that the injured persons were rushed to the hospital while the burnt victims were also evacuated to ensure the free flow of traffic on the affected part of the road.

According to the Corps, an investigation showed that brake failure and road blockage were the major reasons for the collision and ensuing fire, which cost the lives of the victims.

The Acting Corps Marshal, FRSC, Dauda Biu, urged drivers, vehicle owners, and fleet operators to adopt the safe culture of doing routine and regular maintenance on their vehicles as they travel from one location to another in light of the unfortunate multiple deadly crashes.

The statement read: “As at the time of this statement, the emergency rescue team of the Corps has concluded the rescue of the injured persons to the hospital while the burnt victims were also evacuated.

“The Corps Marshal has directed adequate deployment of personnel to ensure prompt clearing of obstructions and free flow of traffic on the affected part of the road.

“While decrying the dangers and damages that come from poor vehicle maintenance, wanton neglect of signs and warnings about mechanical deficiencies in the vehicle and driving against legal speed limit, the Acting Corps Marshal further directed Commanding Officers to intensify sensitisation and routine inspection for all fleet operators nationwide.

“He concluded by admonishing the public to always patronise the FRSC toll free line 122 and the National Traffic Radio 107.1 FM which are always available for all road users to report emergencies at any given time.”