A devastating accident claimed three lives in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on Tuesday morning when a container-laden truck lost control and toppled onto a commercial tricycle, commonly known as Keke Marwa. The tragic incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. at Takie Junction, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
According to eyewitness accounts, the articulated truck was navigating a bend when it lost stability, causing the heavy container it was transporting to detach and fall onto the tricycle. The tricycle, which was carrying two female passengers and its operator, was completely crushed under the weight of the container.
Rescue operations were immediately initiated, but the effort to save the victims was unsuccessful. “All three occupants, including the two women and the rider, were confirmed dead at the scene,” said a witness who requested anonymity.
The tragic event disrupted traffic flow in the area, with officials and community members working to remove the container and clear the road. Authorities have since urged motorists to exercise caution when approaching the affected stretch of the road to prevent further accidents.
In a statement, local authorities expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and reiterated the need for stricter safety measures for heavy-duty vehicles navigating urban roads. “This incident underscores the importance of ensuring that articulated vehicles meet safety standards, especially when transporting heavy cargo through densely populated areas,” a spokesperson said.
Efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy at the accident site, with road safety officials working to avert similar occurrences. Residents of Ogbomoso have also called on the government to improve road infrastructure and implement more stringent traffic regulations to safeguard lives.
This tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers posed by heavy-duty vehicles on public roads and the urgent need for preventive measures to protect road users.
