Tragedy: Dangote ruck crushes pregnant woman, child, six others in Ondo

A tragic accident in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, has claimed the lives of a pregnant woman, her child, and six others after a cement-laden truck reportedly belonging to Dangote Cement lost control on Wednesday night.

The crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. near the main gate of Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) and the Holy Trinity Church, sending shockwaves through the university community. According to eyewitnesses, the truck, which was travelling from Obajana, Kogi State, allegedly suffered a brake failure before ramming into traders and other road users in the busy area.

Outrage as Residents Blame Authorities

Angry residents who gathered at the scene accused local authorities of negligence following the removal of a barricade previously installed to stop articulated trucks from entering the area. They alleged that the removal contributed to the frequency of fatal accidents on that stretch of road.

One resident claimed that some individuals had turned the barricade into a toll point, extorting truck drivers before allowing them passage. “Some boys in the community had been using the barricade to collect ₦10,000 from drivers. The government ignored the warning signs,” the resident said.

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FRSC Confirms Eight Deaths

Confirming the incident, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in Ondo State, Mr. Ibitoye, said eight people died in the crash — five men, two women, and one child.

He explained that the truck lost control after hitting the barricade in front of AAUA, leading to multiple casualties. The corps commander reiterated that safety enforcement and preventive measures were being reviewed to avoid a recurrence.

Painful Memories Revived

Residents of Akungba-Akoko recalled that the same area had witnessed several similar accidents involving heavy-duty trucks over the years, many of which claimed numerous lives. Wednesday’s tragedy has once again renewed calls for a permanent ban on heavy trucks from passing through the university community.

What do you think should be done to prevent recurring accidents in Akungba-Akoko? Share your thoughts in the comments.