KOGI MULTIPLE CRASH: FRSC CONFIRMS 31 DEAD

Contrary to conflicting media reports on the multiple fatal crash which occurred at the new market area of Felele in Lokoja, the Kogi State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps has confirmed 31 persons dead from the road traffic crash which was attributed to brake failure of a trailer conveying bags of cement.

According to the Kogi State Sector Commander Yomi Asaniyan, the fatal crash which took place along the Lokoja- Okene highway at about 12. 15pm, also involved 9 cars, 5 buses and 5 motorcycles after the trailer driver coming from the Obajana Cement Plant belonging to Dangote Group apparently lost control of his truck and rammed into on- coming vehicles including motorcycles and crushed road side traders.

A breakdown of the death toll indicate that 27 persons who died on the spot were taken to the General Hospital Mortuary alongside 27 other injured persons who were taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Lokoja and Omeza Private Hospital for medical attention.
However, 4 additional persons died at the Hospital as a result of degree of injuries sustained  while the trailer driver was still conscious from injuries sustained at the multiple road crash.

Much as the Federal Road Safety Corps commiserates with bereaved families, a passionate appeal is hereby made to the Nigerian media to always seek confirmation from appropriate authorities on issues bothering on national and human interest before any publication.

Meanwhile, the FRSC has stepped up measures to ensure the removal of roadside trading along the nation’s highways. This is coming on the heels of unpleasant incidents along certain routes such as the Dekina Local government in December last year and Ikare in Ondo State in January, 2010 which resulted to colossal loss of human and material resources.