Toll Gate Tragedy: Abiodun Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Fatal Ota Accident, Condemns Reckless Driving, Directs Full Investigation

By: Online Editor 

The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has strongly condemned the reckless driving habits of some truck operators plying the Sango–Ota corridor, following a fatal accident at the Ota Toll Gate area that claimed seven lives.

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the governor's sorrow and swift actions were conveyed in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Governor, Kayode Akinmade on Tuesday.

The crash, which involved a trailer tanker reportedly affected by brake failure, resulted in the deaths of six men and one woman. Two other victims — a male and a female — sustained critical injuries and are currently receiving medical attention. In total, nine persons were involved in the tragic incident.

Describing the development as painful and unacceptable, the Governor said the loss of innocent lives due to preventable negligence is one too many. 

He therefore extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for strength and comfort for them during this difficult period.

The statement reveals that Governor Abiodun has directed an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, stressing that anyone found culpable must face the full weight of the law.

He also called for heightened vigilance and stricter traffic enforcement by the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps to prevent a recurrence along the busy corridor.

In a related development, the Executive Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Lawal Adewale Wasiu visited the scene shortly after the incident alongside key local government officials, where he received briefings from security operatives coordinating rescue and control efforts.

The Chairman expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and reiterated the need for strict adherence to traffic regulations. 

He also cautioned against roadside trading and other risky activities that expose residents and commuters to avoidable danger, assuring that the council would collaborate closely with relevant agencies to strengthen safety compliance within the axis.

The Ogun State Government reaffirmed its resolve to intensify road safety enforcement and protect lives and property across the state.