A tragic accident in Akungba Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State, claimed the lives of at least eight people on Wednesday evening. Among the victims were a pregnant woman and a young child.
According to eyewitnesses, the crash involved a cement-laden truck belonging to the Dangote Group. The vehicle reportedly lost control and ploughed into several roadside shops along the Owo–Akungba–Ikare expressway, near the popular Holy Trinity Church.
The incident caused panic across the town, with residents and students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), rushing to the scene.
Confirming the tragedy, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Ondo State, Mr. Samuel Ibitoye, said the truck lost control after hitting a barricade near the university gate.
“The truck ran into a barricade and lost control, resulting in the crash. No fewer than eight people were killed, including five men, two women, and one male child,” Ibitoye said.
He urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and to strictly observe traffic rules to avoid similar disasters.
Reacting to the incident, the Public Relations Officer of the AAUA Students’ Union Government, Akinibobola Ajidagba, described the crash as devastating.
“We regret to inform the entire student body that a Dangote truck suffered brake failure while descending from Ikare toward Akungba and destroyed the barricade at the university’s main gate,” he said.
Ajidagba noted that the Students’ Union had repeatedly called for a ban on heavy-duty trucks from using Akungba roads due to the recurring accidents in the area.
“Nearly ten people have lost their lives in this tragedy. The Students’ Union has consistently advocated for the restriction of articulated vehicles from Akungba roads to safeguard lives and property,” he added.
He urged students to remain calm and avoid the highway while the union works with authorities to maintain peace and ensure safety within the community.
