Lokoja, Nigeria – The Governor of Nigeria’s Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed profound grief following a devastating road accident that killed 19 people, including five children, and injured eight others on Monday morning. The tragic incident occurred on the Lokoja-Obajana road in the state’s Lokoja Local Government Area.
Governor Ododo described the crash as an immense loss to both the victims’ families and the entire state. The accident involved a Toyota Hummer Bus and an articulated vehicle, which the Governor’s office stated was a result of “over speeding and wrongful overtaking.”
“Losing 19 lives, including innocent children, in one accident is a tragedy for which words cannot fully express our grief,” Governor Ododo said. “Our hearts are heavy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected, and we must take urgent steps to prevent such sorrowful occurrences. Every life matters, and no journey is worth the risk of over speeding.”
The Governor commended the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Nigeria Police for their swift response in rescuing survivors. He extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those injured, who are currently receiving medical attention in local hospitals.
In response to the tragedy, Governor Ododo has called for the stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and greater discipline among road users. He has also directed the state’s Ministry of Information and Communications to collaborate with the FRSC to enhance public education campaigns on road safety rules and the dangers of excessive speed. Additionally, the Governor stressed the need for improved coordination among all emergency response agencies.
The incident underscores the persistent challenge of road safety in Nigeria, where such accidents are frequently attributed to poor road conditions, reckless driving, and insufficient enforcement of traffic laws.
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