Tragedy struck in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday as a fuel-laden trailer lost control and rammed into multiple tricycles, leaving at least six people dead and several others injured.
The accident occurred around the busy Fruits Market area along the Oje-Beere route in Ibadan South East Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses said the trailer, reportedly carrying about 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, suffered brake failure while descending the Mapo-Beere-Oje road.
According to accounts from the scene, the out-of-control truck ploughed through several tricycles, crushing passengers and riders in its path. The impact was devastating, with victims reportedly killed on the spot.
One of the survivors, a tricycle operator identified as Ademola Aderibigbe, recounted his narrow escape. He explained that he had just taken his tricycle from a mechanic workshop and was testing it near Beere when he suddenly heard a loud crash that pushed him aside. Moments later, the trailer sped uncontrollably toward the Oje axis.
Witnesses said more than five tricycles were destroyed in the incident. Some described the aftermath as horrific, with bodies severely mutilated due to the impact.
Another eyewitness, Suleiman Oguntayo, expressed concern over the recurring accidents along the route, noting that the driver first lost control near Beere, killing passengers before continuing toward Oje Market, where more lives were lost.
The tragedy has left families devastated. A relative of one of the victims revealed that the deceased had just celebrated the naming ceremony of his newborn child days earlier, leaving behind a 10-day-old baby.
Meanwhile, some locals fear the death toll could rise, as reports indicate that not all victims were immediately identified due to the severity of the crash. Several injured persons have been taken to hospitals across the city for treatment.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Oyo State Police Command, Olayinka Ayanlade, said authorities are still verifying the number of casualties. He added that the case would be transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department for further probe.
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