By Latiifah Amusan
A devastating accident on the Koko-Yauri Road has left the nation in mourning as a truck carrying passengers and beans from Sokoto to Ibadan, Oyo State, met with a horrifying fate.
The incident, which occurred in the Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State resulted in at least eleven fatalities and left ten others injured, with varying degrees of severity.
The Kebbi State Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the heartbreaking incident, shedding light on the events that unfolded.
“On November 3, 2023, around 6 am, there was a motor vehicle accident along Koko – Yauri Road, involving a Volvo DAF truck with number plate KWA 230 SKK, driven by one Alhaji Sule ‘m’ aged 40yrs of Gada LGA of Sokoto State.
“The truck which was loaded with passengers and bags of beans was coming from Sokoto to Ibadan, Oyo State. On reaching Giron Masa village, Shanga LGA, the driver of the truck lost control. As a result, it somersaulted and 21 passengers sustained various degrees of injuries.
“On receipt of the report, a team of policemen from Shanga Division mobilized the scene and evacuated the victims to General Hospital Shanga, for treatment, where a medical doctor confirmed 11 dead, while the remaining victims are responding to treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Chris Aimionowane, offered his condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the souls of the departed to rest in peace.
The CP urged transport unions and other road users to consistently incorporate sufficient safety measures in their vehicles and remain vigilant to prevent future incidents.
Additionally, he recommended adhering to speed limits, avoiding overloading, reckless driving, and exercising greater caution when behind the wheel.
