One person has been confirmed dead and several others injured after a commercial bus carrying 21 passengers somersaulted and caught fire along the Oko-Olowo Expressway in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Sunday.
The accident occurred around Iye-Maja Junction when the bus, with registration number DTH840SA, developed a punctured tyre while in motion. The driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to somersault and burst into flames.
The Kwara State Fire Service received a distress call about the incident and mobilised its personnel to the scene. Firefighters arrived at about 6:35 pm and immediately began emergency operations.
“The passengers were evacuated from the vehicle, with those who sustained injuries taken to the hospital for medical attention,” the Service said in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Hassan Adekunle.
The Fire Service confirmed one fatality and expressed sympathy to the family of the deceased while wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
Chief Fire Officer Alabi Muhammed also condoled with the bereaved family. He urged motorists, especially commercial vehicle operators, to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and roadworthy before embarking on journeys.
“The importance of regular inspection of tyres, braking systems, electrical components and other critical parts of vehicles cannot be overemphasised,” Muhammed said.
He added that early detection of faults could help prevent serious road emergencies and advised motorists to exercise caution while driving on the highways. He also called on members of the public to promptly report emergencies to the appropriate response agencies.
The Kwara State Fire Service reaffirmed its commitment to responding promptly to emergencies and protecting lives and property across the state.
