The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has reported that 13 passengers lost their lives in a tragic road accident on the Owo-Ikare highway in Ondo State.
The accident, which occurred on Saturday, involved a fabric-laden vehicle and a passenger bus carrying 14 individuals.
In a statement, Samuel Ibitoye, FRSC Sector Commander in Ondo State, said only one passenger survived the accident but sustained serious injuries.
“A total of 14 people were involved out of which 13 were burnt beyond recognition while only one was rescued alive with serious injuries,” the statement read.
According to eyewitness accounts, the bus traveling from the Ikare axis experienced a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control and collide head-on with another bus loaded with fabric coming from the Owo axis.
“Immediately after the collision, the two buses went in flames,” Ibitoye added.
FRSC personnel, police officers, and firefighters swiftly responded to the crash scene for rescue operations. The injured survivor was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo for treatment.
The sector commander urged drivers to prioritize road safety by maintaining their vehicles and exercising patience while driving.
“Passengers are encouraged to speak out against dangerous driving because road safety is a concern of all,” Ibitoye said.