Two killed, several injured as speeding truck crashes into vehicles, pedestrians in Ibadan

By Adeola Badru

A tragic multiple motor and pedestrian accident at Soka Junction in Ibadan, along the Ibadan–Lagos Expressway, has claimed the lives of two persons and left several others with varying degrees of injuries.

The crash, which occurred on Saturday night at about 10:10 p.m., involved multiple vehicles, including a Toyota Venza and a BMW, both of which were badly damaged.

Preliminary findings revealed that a white HOWO truck with registration number Gombe GEM696XE rammed into other vehicles and pedestrians after the driver allegedly lost control.

According to witnesses’ accounts, the driver, identified as Abdullahi Bashiru, reportedly lost control of the truck due to reckless driving and excessive speed, leading to the fatal collision.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said he “regrets to confirm that two (2) persons lost their lives, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”

The police spokesperson added that the accident also involved multiple vehicles and damaged them.

He said the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured.

Ayanlade assured the public that “a thorough investigation has commenced to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure that justice is served.”

He further advised members of the public, particularly motorists, to exercise caution, adhere strictly to traffic regulations, and avoid excessive speed to prevent needless loss of lives.

Reaffirming the commitment to protecting lives and property, he urged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely, useful information.