No fewer than 16 people were burnt beyond recognition. In contrast, three others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a fatal crash that occurred around 1 pm on Tuesday near Buhari Estate along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway.
The Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the incident in a statement released by its spokesperson, Florence Okpe.
Okpe said the lone crash involved a white Mazda bus with registration number KJA 949 YJ, which was carrying a filled gas cylinder.
The explosion, triggered by a fire outbreak, led to the devastating loss of lives.
She said, “A total of 21 people were involved in the crash. Sixteen victims were burnt beyond recognition, making it impossible to ascertain their genders at the scene. In contrast, three others sustained injuries and were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta.”
The Sector Commander, Akinwunmi Fasakin, who led the rescue operation, expressed displeasure over the driver’s carelessness.
Fasakin criticised the decision to transport a filled gas cylinder in a passenger vehicle, stressing that highly flammable substances should only be conveyed in designated vehicles operated by trained professionals.
He also joined efforts to clear the wreckage and restore traffic flow along the busy route.
The FRSC boss urged motorists and passengers to prioritise safety while extending his condolences to the families of the deceased.
