By Nkechi Eze
Following the tragic road crash that claimed 19 lives on the Obajana-Lokoja expressway, the Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. He also issued a passionate call to commuters across the country to take an active role in road safety by speaking out against reckless and dangerous driving behavior.
According to an official statement made by Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, Corps Public Education Officer, the fatal crash occurred at about 6:10 p.m. on Sunday, 25 May 2025, at Gadabiu on the Obajana-Lokoja expressway. The accident involved a Sino truck and a Toyota Hiace bus, both of which were traveling at high speed before a wrongful overtaking maneuver resulted in a devastating collision.
The crash involved 27 individuals 22 adults and five children. Tragically, 19 people, including 14 adults and all five children, were burned beyond recognition. The remaining eight adults sustained varying degrees of injuries and were immediately transported to Fisayo Hospital in Obajana for urgent medical care.
The deceased victims were laid to rest at the Obajana Central Mosque in accordance with Islamic rites.
Reacting to the incident, Corps Marshal Mohammed described the crash as “an avoidable and heartbreaking loss” and strongly emphasized the urgent need for behavioral change among road users. He urged passengers and other commuters not to remain silent in the face of life-threatening driving conduct.
“We must all wake up to the reality that road safety is a shared responsibility,” Mohammed stated. “Commuters must take their destinies in their hands by speaking up whenever they notice any form of reckless driving. Remaining silent is no longer an option.”
He noted that the input of vigilant passengers had previously contributed to a 10 percent reduction in road traffic crashes recorded during the Corps’ operations last year. “This shows that when the public is engaged and alert, lives can be saved,” he added.
In response to the crash and as part of broader efforts to reduce speed-related accidents on Nigerian highways, the Corps Marshal has issued a directive to all Sector Commanders to intensify public awareness campaigns and enforce the compulsory installation of speed-limiting devices in commercial vehicles.
“We will not tolerate reckless driving,” he warned. “The Corps is fully prepared to take decisive action against violators. Our officers will be on high alert, especially along high-risk routes, to prevent further tragedies.”
The FRSC also announced the deployment of enhanced enforcement strategies, including increased highway surveillance and more aggressive patrol operations. These measures, the Corps Marshal explained, will be executed in collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure that road traffic offenders are swiftly apprehended and sanctioned.
He concluded by urging all road users to prioritize safety and adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations.
“Let us not wait for another disaster before we act,” Mohammed said. “Together, we can make Nigeria’s roads safer for everyone.”
The FRSC once again extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public of its unwavering commitment to reducing road traffic crashes and ensuring safer roads nationwide.
