A truck loaded with gravel has lost control and crushed four persons, including a motorcyclist, his two passengers, and a baby to death in Ondo State.
The accident happened on January 14, 2025, along Ikare-Ogbagi Akoko road in the state.
The fatal crash has highlighted the worsening condition of the road of which many residents and advocacy groups have raised concerns about.
The passengers who are women, including the mother of the baby were on the bike when the truck lost its brake and crushed all of them to death.
It was learnt that the incident occurred when a tipper, overloaded with gravel, lost control while travelling from the Ikare direction and rammed into a motorcycle that had stopped to allow passengers to disembark at the powerhouse area.
Tragically, the motorcyclist, his two passengers, and a baby were killed instantly.
This latest incident adds to the growing list of fatal accidents on the road.
In January 2024, a similar accident claimed the life of a young boy at Egako Quarters.
Despite public outcry and calls for urgent repairs, authorities have failed to address the deteriorating state of Ogbagi Road or regulate the movement of heavy-duty vehicles.
Ogbagi Road, which connects Irun Akoko, Ese Akoko, and neighbouring Ekiti towns to Ikare, has long been in a state of disrepair. The road is riddled with deep potholes, eroded surfaces, and poor drainage, making it perilous for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Residents have expressed their frustration over the lack of action from both state and federal authorities. Advocacy groups, including The Good Governance Group, have called for immediate intervention to prevent further tragedies.
“How many more lives must be lost before something is done?” A concerned resident asked.
In response to this tragedy, the Ogbagi Progressive Youth Movement has called on the Ondo State Government and the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing to urgently rehabilitate Ogbagi Road to ensure it is safe for all users.
The group also demanded for the enforcement of regulations on heavy-duty vehicle movement and instalment of safety features such as speed bumps, streetlights, and proper signage.
The community is also demanding swift action to prevent more lives from being lost on the dangerous road.
