A tragic road accident in Lokoja, Kogi State, has claimed the lives of six individuals and left 60 others injured, sparking fresh concerns over road safety in Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Tuesday around 3:00 p.m. near the Zone 8 Roundabout along Hassan Katsina Road.
According to the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kogi, Mr. Samuel Oyedeji, an articulated truck traveling from Bauchi to Enugu State lost control, resulting in the devastating crash.
“The prompt response of our officers, in collaboration with the Police and NSCDC personnel, ensured that the injured were rushed to the Kogi Specialist Hospital and the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Lokoja for urgent medical care,” Oyedeji confirmed in a statement.
The remains of the deceased were also deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital mortuary.
The crash is another reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures, especially in high-traffic areas like Lokoja, a major transit hub for northern and southern Nigeria.
Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as first responders worked tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the accident.
“It was a horrific sight. People were trapped, and it took hours to clear the scene,” said a local resident.
Mr. Oyedeji urged drivers to exercise caution, especially when operating heavy-duty vehicles, and called on the government to intensify efforts in addressing road infrastructure challenges and enforcing traffic regulations.
As investigations continue into the cause of the accident, Nigerians are once again reminded of the shared responsibility to ensure safer roads for all.