Okada Rider Dies, 6 Injured In Auto Crash

A middle-aged commercial motorcyclist (okada rider) was feared dead while five other persons were injured this morning in an accident involving a commuter bus with registration number XV 646 FST.

The driver of the bus allegedly lost control around Obawole area of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area of Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria.

The brake of the bus coming from Iju-Ishaga area reportedly failed and the driver lost control of the steering at the Obawole slope.

In an attempt not to run into in-coming vehicles, the driver swerved the bus which hit two okada riders. One of them died instantly as the vehicle summersaulted. Five of its passengers and the second okada rider were injured.

Sympathisers rushed to the scene. Rescue operations began immediately. Chairman Ifako-Ijaiye Council Area, Apostle Toba Oke was one of the rescuers who moved the injured persons to a nearby hospital.

The Divisional Crime Officer, DCO, Mr. Yinka Lawal of Red House Police Division, Iju-Agege, Remi Moses, FRSC Special Marshal and Baale of Anipole, Obawole area, Chief Oriyomi Olawale were also part of the rescue operation.

One of the passengers who did not want his name mentioned, said the accident occurred when the driver lost control due to brake failure.

FRSC Special Marshal, Moses told P.M.NEWS that the accident was caused by carelessness of the driver and poor maintenance culture, saying that the bus had three different tyres such as realm 13, 14 and 15.

As if to confirm the special marshal’s claim, the bus driver took to his heels after the accident.

Meanwhile, policemen from Red House Division have moved the bus to their office on Agege Road, Iju.

—Ayodele Lawal