At least 28 passengers lost their lives in a horrific auto crash on Saturday night, February 1, 2025, at the Onipetesi area along the Ore/Lagos highway, within the Odigbo local government area of Ondo State.
The deadly accident involved two commercial buses, which collided head-on, resulting in both vehicles bursting into flames.
Dr. Samuel Ibitoye, the Ondo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), confirmed the incident, stating that preliminary investigations indicated one of the vehicles was driving against traffic.
The FRSC boss revealed that the tragic crash occurred due to excessive speeding and traffic violations.
“The accident was caused by excessive speeding and a traffic violation, leading to the vehicles’ head-on collision. Tragically, 28 out of the 30 passengers in the vehicles perished in the inferno,” he said. “These passengers were burnt beyond recognition.”
Ibitoye expressed his condolences and stressed the need for road users to exercise caution.
He urged drivers to ensure proper vehicle maintenance and avoid reckless driving. “The contract between drivers and passengers is to deliver them safely to their destinations, not to their graves,” he said.
In addition to urging drivers to exercise patience on the highway, Ibitoye called on passengers to also play a role in road safety by cautioning drivers who flout traffic rules.
He reminded the public that passengers have the right to report reckless drivers to FRSC personnel.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the importance of patience on the highway to reduce accidents and protect lives,” Ibitoye added, appealing for greater vigilance from all road users to prevent further crashes and preserve lives and property.