A horrific accident at Eleyele Bus Stop in Ibadan on Wednesday afternoon has left several people dead and many injured after a truck loaded with granite lost control and crashed into a park garage.
Eyewitnesses reported that the truck, traveling at high speed, veered off its lane, hitting a group of roadside traders before plowing into the garage, where it struck passengers waiting for transportation. The impact caused widespread devastation, leaving the area in chaos.
One eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the scene as heartbreaking, with victims scattered and panicked onlookers trying to assist. The truck driver reportedly fled the scene to evade mob action, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
Rescue efforts by emergency responders are ongoing, as authorities work to recover victims, clear the wreckage, and restore traffic in the busy area. However, the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed.
In a statement, Rosemary Alo, the Oyo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the tragic incident. She expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries, reiterating previous warnings to roadside traders about the dangers of operating in such areas.
“If they had heeded these warnings, we could have potentially reduced the number of casualties,” Alo said. She added that the FRSC, in collaboration with the local government, would intensify efforts to enforce a ban on street trading in the area to prevent similar tragedies.
The tragic accident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and better road management in the city.
