The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that the driver of the Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle involved in the road traffic accident that affected Nigerian-British boxer, Anthony Joshua, is currently in police custody.
The Command said the the driver was being detained to enable the police carry out a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
In a statement made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the investigation was aimed at establishing the cause of the accident and determining the level of culpability.
Mr Babaseyi gave an assurance that the investigation would be handled with professionalism and transparency, while appealing to members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation as the process continues.
It would be recalled that British Former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, had survived a fatal car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two British men travelling with him.
The crash occurred on Monday on the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu, when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua collided with a stationary truck.
Eight people have been confirmed dead, while eleven others sustained injuries in a fatal accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near the NASFAT Turn, outbound Lagos.
Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency TRACE, Public Relations Officer, Commander Babatunde Akinbiyi, confirmed the incident in a statement made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, saying the crash occurred at 3::00pm.
According to Commander Akinbiyi, the accident involved an 18-seater commercial bus with registration number APP 943 XP and a truck with registration number AKM 547 YQ.
He explained that the driver of the 18-passenger bus was speeding when it rammed into an empty, bottled-laden truck while the truck driver was attempting to make a U-turn towards the Ibadan axis, adding that, twenty one people were involved in the crash, eight people lost their lives on the spot, including four males, two females, and two toddlers, while eleven people sustained varying degrees of injuries and two males were uninjured.
Commander Akinbiyi explained that the injured victims were taken to the State Hospital, Abeokuta, and FAMOBIS Hospital, as there was flow of traffic along the expressway after the evacuation.
British Former heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, has survived a fatal car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two British men travelling with him.
The crash occurred on Monday along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu, when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua collided with a stationary truck.
Police confirmed that Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries while seated in the rear of the vehicle.
“The vehicle conveying Anthony Joshua, a Lexus SUV, was involved in the accident under circumstances that are currently being investigated,” said Ogun State Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi.
“He was seated in the rear of the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and [is] receiving medical attention.”
A witness, Adeniyi Orojo, noted that Joshua was travelling with three others when the crash occurred.
“Joshua was seated behind the driver with another person beside him. There was also a passenger sitting beside the driver, making four occupants in the Lexus that crashed. His security detail was in the vehicle behind them before the crash,” he said.
Orojo added that the passenger beside the driver and the person seated next to Joshua died instantly.
Meanwhile, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) attributed the accident to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking.
FRSC spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, in a statement after the incident on Monday, confirmed that five men were involved, with two fatalities, one injury, and two escaping unhurt.
The remains of the deceased, identified as British nationals, were deposited at Livewell Morgue in Sagamu.
“Preliminary findings indicate that the Lexus Jeep, which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck well parked by the side of the road,” Ogungbemide said.
The Ogun State Government expressed condolences to the bereaved families and sympathy to Joshua. Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, described the incident as “deeply unfortunate and painful, particularly with the loss of precious lives.”
He added, “Our hearts go out to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in this tragic incident, which the State considers a devastating loss. As we mourn collectively, we pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar also reacted. In a post on his verified X account on Tuesday, Atiku said he was “deeply saddened” by news of the incident, which occurred in the Makun area of the state, and offered prayers for Joshua’s recovery.
“Heartfelt condolences go to the families and loved ones of the two individuals who tragically lost their lives in the accident.”
Joshua, who has family roots in Sagamu, was in Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December, a fight he won by sixth-round knockout. The bout marked his return to the ring after a 15-month layoff, with plans already underway for a potential clash with Tyson Fury in 2026.
The accident has prompted renewed warnings from the FRSC to motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking and excessive speed, particularly during the festive season when traffic volumes are at their highest.
The damaged Lexus SUV has been evacuated to the Sagamu Motor Traffic Division office, while investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Joshua remains under medical observation at an undisclosed hospital, while tributes continue to pour in for the two men who lost their lives in the incident.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has intensified nationwide measures to ensure smooth passenger movement during the yuletide amid increased traffic and ongoing airport upgrades.
Speaking with aviation reporters in Lagos, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Henry Agbebire, said the authority had anticipated the seasonal surge, particularly in Lagos, where Terminal One is undergoing repairs.
He said additional customer service personnel, identified by “Ask Me” jackets, have been deployed, while security has been strengthened, especially at arrival and pick-up areas.
According to Mr Agbebire, FAAN is collaborating with Customs, Immigration and other security agencies to deliver a seamless and welcoming experience for travellers, including Nigerians returning from the diaspora.
He noted that extra security personnel have been deployed in Lagos to manage crowd control and traffic flow, with similar arrangements in place at airports nationwide.
While acknowledging that construction activities and airline delays may cause occasional inconveniences, he assured passengers that FAAN is committed to minimising disruptions.
Mr. Agbebire urged travellers to report any form of harassment through QR codes and helplines displayed at airports, adding that personnel have been cautioned against misconduct.
He appealed for patience from airport users, assuring that the temporary challenges will result in improved airport facilities in the coming weeks.
The Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has appointed Superintendent Route Commander Afolabi Odunsi-Oyewole as its new Public Education Officer.
The announcement, issued by Sector Commander Akinwunmi Fasakin, follows the death of the former spokesperson, Florence Okpe, who passed away on October 28 while in active service.
According to the statement, Mr Odunsi-Oyewole, a Lagos State native with a Master’s degree in Personnel Psychology, has served in various FRSC formations and is described as a seasoned officer.
The command appealed to the public for full cooperation and reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of motorists and road users.
Punch/Maxwell OyekunleFollow us on Telegram and YouTube, and join our WhatsApp Update Group for more news updates.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has pledged his administration’s renewed commitment to harnessing the state’s aviation potential for economic and socio-economic development.
The governor made the declaration while hosting members of the Women in Aviation International (WAI), Nigeria Chapter, who were in Ibadan for their annual conference, themed “Connect, Engage, Inspire.”
The event was held at the Western Hall, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
A cross-section of attendees at the Women In Aviation International, Nigeria Chapter event in Ibadan
Governor Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief Adebayo Lawal, cited several women who have played significant roles in the aviation sector.
He urged the association to remain committed to their responsibilities, emphasizing that the aviation industry is an international field where women are equally capable.
The governor also affirmed that his administration remains dedicated to the ongoing upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport (SLA) to international standards, expressing confidence that the project will transform the state’s economy.
In her address, the Founder of Women in Aviation, Nigeria Chapter, Dr. Rejoice Ndudinachi, stated that beyond the conference’s focus, the association plans to engage schools in Ibadan for mentorship and scholarship programs within the aviation industry.
The Vice Chairperson of the association, Miss Seyifunmi Peace, encouraged parents to allow their children to explore and take advantage of career prospects in the aviation sector.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has confirmed a multiple-vehicle crash involving several trucks and a container-laden trailer on Kara Bridge, inward Mowe, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
According to a post issued via its official X handle on Thursday, the agency said the accident resulted in a major fire outbreak and severe traffic congestion along the busy highway.
LASTMA said the crash involved a truck and a container-laden trailer that went up in flames, another truck that spilled its load of cartons of biscuits onto the road, and a separate container truck that crashed into the bridge barrier, causing its carrier to fall into the river.
The Agency confirmed that eight casualties were recorded in the incident, while emergency responders were working to recover and evacuate the affected vehicles.
“Eight casualties recorded and effort is on top gear for recovery and evacuation of the vehicles involved”.
LASTMA stated that the crash caused a significant traffic backlog stretching from the Kara Bridge area to Ogunnusi Road on the expressway.
The agency, therefore, advised motorists to exercise patience and use alternative routes.
“LASTMA personnel, Police officers, and other emergency teams are on ground clearing the contents (Biscuits and goods).
“A high-capacity tow truck and SEMA ambulance are on site, while a Crane machine is also expected to arrive soon at the scene to recover all burnt and affected vehicles,” it added.
The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Command, has advised motorists to reduce speed during the ’ember months’ to stem unnecessary road crashes.
FRSC Commander in charge of Sagamu-Ore-Benin Expressway, Nasir Mohammed, gave the advice in an interview with the newsmen in Ota.
Mohammed noted that as easy as speed was, it kills faster than any deadly diseases, stressing the need for motorists to refrain from excessive speed that could lead to disaster through crashes.
“We urge motorists to obey road signs and adhere to average speed limit to prevent avoidable crashes during the ember months.
”We also strongly advice against night travel, reckless driving and wrongful over taking,” he said.
The route commander emphasised the need for motorists to desist from drunk-driving as this could affect their sense of reasoning thus resulting to accident.
He reiterated the FRSC’s commitment to embark on an aggressive public enlightenment and patrols to educate the public on the dangers of flouting traffic rules and regulations.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has said his administration has completed 16 out of the 22 road projects it has embarked upon in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area since its inception six years ago.
The governor disclosed this in Ijebu-Ode at the inauguration of the Awokoya, Igbeba-Yidi Road.
He said his government took an interest in the roads because of their importance to the socio-economic life of the people and to stop the yearly loss of lives, particularly on the Yidi Road.
The governor, who reiterated his commitment to the fair and equitable distribution of developmental projects in all sections of the state, noted that as the state helmsman, his job was to ensure all-round development of the state.
He said that with the recent hosting of the National Sports Festival, the state has grown from being the industrial capital, the education capital, and the sports capital to become the cultural capital of Nigeria, attributing this to the ‘can-do’ spirit of the people of the state.
While assuring the people of Ijebuland that this year’s Ojude Oba Festival would be eventful, Governor Abiodun stated that his administration has elevated it to international standards.
Former Deputy Governor of the state, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, in her goodwill message, said the road had been in very bad shape over the years, causing motorists to undergo traumatic experiences. She appreciated the governor for coming to their rescue, adding that he has carried out many infrastructural developments in Ijebu-Ode and its environs.
The member representing Ijebu-Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North East Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Hon. Olufemi Ogunbamwo, noted that six years of Governor Abiodun’s administration have brought tremendous socio-economic development to Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State, saying the road project was an indication that the present administration is people-oriented.
The Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, lauded the governor for the even distribution of projects across the state, which he said was unprecedented, and commended him for being good to the state workers.
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ade Akinsanya noted that the roads were in a deplorable condition and prone to flooding, stating that with their reconstruction, residents of the area would heave a sigh of relief.
Ogun State House of Assembly has emphasized then need for Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to improve on its monitoring mechanisms to ensure quality delivery of ongoing road projects across the State.
Chairman, Committee on Works and Infrastructure, Mr Adegoke Adeyanju stated this while leading other members on an oversight visit to some of the sites of the road projects in Obafemi/Owode, Ikenne, Odogbolu, Remo North and Ijebu-Ode.
He stressed the importance of professional supervision of the projects during the construction and completion phases to maximize the benefits of the State investment in road infrastructure; describing the road projects as critical towards enhancing accessibility and attracting investments to the State.
He emphasised the need for timely completion of the projects in line with agreed schedules and advised on the inclusion of adequate drainage system to prevent flooding.
The House Committee Chairman also stressed the importance of even distribution of projects, particularly to all parts of the State to ensure balanced development.
The committee members including mr Yusuf Sherrif, Mr Lukman Adeleye, Mr Dickson Awolaja, Dr Babatunde Tella and Mr Oluseun Adesanya, inspected road projects across several local government areas, and commended the ongoing efforts of the Prince Dapo Abiodun led-administration for the development initiatives.
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The Nigeria Police Force, Oyo command, the state government and Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority, OYRTMA have met on ways to prevent the recurrence of last Tuesday’s incident that claimed the life of a teenager, kehinde Alade, in Ibadan.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr Johnson Adenola, at the meeting held at the command headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan, said the life of Kehinde was cut short by the misdirected gunshot from a Police Corporal at Gbagi-Alakia in Egbeda local government area of Oyo State.
The concerned authorities, including the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Chairman of Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority, OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd), admitted that there was a need to urgently address the excesses of road users.
They highlighted stiffer penalties for offenders, more sensitisation on the dangers of violating traffic rules, placement of monitoring cameras at strategic locations, as well as immediate provision of a mobile court to try offenders.
Speaking on the delay of the prosecution, the police boss said, the culprit who was also the father of the deceased, Mr Odunayo Alade had yet to officially report the incident to the command.
He said that Mr. Alade was a serial offender as he had disobeyed the traffic rules a few days before the tragic incident.
He also reiterated that the police officer who fired the bullet that allegedly killed Kehinde Alade had been arrested and was being held in the custody of the state CID, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
Contributing, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade assured the public that the matter would not be swept under the carpet.
Also, the Chairman of OYRTMA, Retired Major Adesagba noted that traffic offenders were increasing daily, which had constantly led to harassment and assaults on their officers.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Osun State Sector Command, has issued a two-week ultimatum to owners of unregistered vehicles and motorcycles to comply with registration requirements or face a coordinated crackdown.
The Sector Commander, Mr. Leye Adegboyega, in a statement by the Sector Public Education Officer, Mrs. Agnes Ogungbemi, as part of activities marking the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week, raised concerns over the increasing number of unregistered and improperly registered vehicles plying roads in the state, particularly those with fake or dealer number plates.
Mr. Adegboyega noted that the situation poses serious security and economic threats, as such vehicles are often used for criminal purposes and contribute to massive revenue losses for the state.
He emphasised that many motorcycles under the guise of commercial operations were involved in illegal activities, with intelligence from security agencies supporting the claim.
He said FRSC would launch a joint enforcement operation with the Osun State Board of Internal Revenue and other relevant agencies at the end of the two-week ultimatum, targeting Osogbo and its environs.
Mr. Adegboyega also announced a renewed crackdown on dangerous driving, especially on highways and township roads, citing the deaths of 31 people in two days in February 2025 and the loss of six Osun State University students in March 2025, due to wrong-way driving.
To tackle this, the FRSC has extended its Special Intervention Patrols to various parts of the state, including the East and West Bypass in Osogbo and other key routes.
Reiterating the theme of the ongoing UN Road Safety Week – “Streets for Life: #MakeWalkingSafe, #MakeCyclingSafe” – Mr. Adegboyega called for collective action from the public and the media.
Two dispatch riders have lost their lives after a 20-feet container fell on them during a collision involving two fully loaded Mack trucks on Eko Bridge inward Alaka on Sunday.
The Lagos State Transport Management Agency disclosed this tragic incident in a statement signed and released by its spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, on Sunday.
According to Taofiq, the dispatch riders, with vehicle registration numbers T-10357 LA and KJA 107 XM were commuting on the axis when the accident happened.
“Preliminary findings suggest that the driver of one of the articulated trucks, reportedly driving at an excessive speed while allegedly dozing off, lost control of the vehicle.
“The truck then careened into another moving trucks ahead of it, triggering a violent impact.
“This collision led to the dislodgement of a 20-foot container from one of the trucks, which subsequently crushed two unsuspecting dispatch riders who were navigating the route at the time.
“Both victims were confirmed dead at the scene,” he said.
Taofiq stated that LASTMA officers, who were monitoring traffic under the Eko Bridge, quickly responded to the incident and rescued a severely injured truck driver.
He said the driver was rushed to a nearby hospital in a Lagos State Government ambulance for immediate medical care.
He noted that two truck drivers fled the scene, due to fear of consequences, while investigations are ongoing to track and apprehend them.
The spokesperson further said that the affected area has been cordoned by LASTMA and has redirected traffic through Coastain Roundabout to prevent further incidents.
In the statement, LASTMA’s General Manager, Bakare-Oki, condoled with the families affected by the tragic incident, expressing sorrow over the loss of lives.
He also emphasized the importance of responsible driving, especially for articulated vehicle operators, and urged all motorists to exercise caution, stay alert, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on any journey.
Six persons have been reported dead and five others injured in a multiple auto crash in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, the Federal Road Safety Corps official has confirmed.
FRSC acting Sector Commander in Kogi, Mr Samuel Ogundayo, made this known to newsmen in Okene.
The Ag. sector commander, who described the accident as “tragic and very unfortunate,” said that the accident, which occurred at Okenkwe community of Okene around 8.30 p.m. on Monday, involved seven vehicles.
Ogundayo said that the tragic incident began with the inability of a truck to climb the Okengwe hill, when it lost its brakes and rolled backwards, crushing two Tricycles, three cars and ramming into another truck.
“The tragic and unfortunate incident left six persons dead and five others injured.
“The FRSC rescue operatives who arrived the accident scene in good time rushed the injured to the Referral Hospital, Okene for treatment, while the corpses of the dead were deposited at Mortuary of the Okene General hospital, ” he stated.
According to him, it took the efforts of his officers and other security agencies to clear the gridlock on the highway for the free flow of traffic.
The commander advised motorists to always take precautions by giving good distance to trucks on highways, especially in hilly areas, so as to avoid any eventuality at break loss.
He tasked motorists to endeavor to keep to the traffic rules and regulations to help in the reduction of traffic road crashes and carnage on our roads.
NAN/Adebukola Aluko
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A multiple accident has claimed seven lives while 8 other persons sustained varying degrees of injuries on Lagos- Ibadan expressway.
The fatal crash, which occurred around 7 a.m., involved a Mack Truck marked SEY363YY, a tanker with registration number T2900LA and a yellow bus marked LSD180YA.
The Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Ogun Sector Command, Mr Fasakin Akinwumi confirmed the crash in a statement through the Public Education Officer, Mrs Florence Okpe.
Mr Akinwunmi attributed the suspected cause of the multiple crash to excessive speed on the part of the Mack truck which led to loss of control and rammed into the other two vehicles.
He said the injured victims had been taken to the private health facilities in Ibafo, while the dead bodies were taken to a private morgue in Sagamu.
Mr Akinwumi, who visited the crash scene for further investigation, sympathized with the families of the crash victims.
The Oyo State House of Assembly has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the activities of the state-owned Pace Setter Transport Services (PTS).
This decision was made after the House Committee on Transport presented its interim report, which revealed several concerns, including the lack of a legal framework guiding the operations of PTS.
The Committee, chaired by Mr. Babajide Adebayo, was given a two-week ultimatum to interface with PTS management and officials.
The report highlighted that the Sole Administrator, Dr. Salami Ibrahim, had recruited 106 additional staff without proper authorization.
The Deputy Speaker Mr. Muhammed Fadeyi countered the claim that PTS is an independent agency, stating that the House has the constitutional right to investigate any agency funded by taxpayers’ money.
Mr. Dele Adeola praised Governor Seyi Makinde for upgrading PTS to alleviate transportation costs following the fuel subsidy removal.
Reacting, the speaker, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, instructed the Committee to conduct a thorough investigation into PTS, focusing on staff auditing, operations, and finances, including state government subventions and revenue generation.
The Speaker also urged the executive arm to establish laws governing PTS through the Ministry of Justice.
“This investigation will also examine state government subventions to the Pacesetter Transport Services and the revenue generated by the company. This becomes imperative towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the operations of PTS.” Oyo Speaker said
The Ogun State Government has announced the commencement of tolling operations on the Epe-Mojoda-Ijebu-Ode Expressway, effective Monday, March 24, 2025. The initiative ensures sustainable road maintenance, efficient operations, and enhanced safety.
The 14.7km expressway had been in a deplorable state for several years, posing significant challenges to commuters. However, under the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun, the road was reconstructed into a modern expressway equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including toll plazas.
A statement by the Director-General of the Office of Public-Private Partnerships, Mr Dapo Oduwole, explained that despite the road’s Public-Private Partnership, PPP, arrangement, tolling was initially delayed as a gesture of goodwill by Governor Abiodun, who prioritized easing the financial burden on residents.
“The Governor recognized the strategic economic importance of the expressway as a vital link between Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, and Ogun State. This necessitated the swift completion of the project,” Oduwole stated.“
He further assured motorists that the road was fully equipped with essential amenities, which would ensure a seamless travel experience.
Oduwole noted that the government had deliberately postponed tolling since 2021 to provide relief to residents and commuters, and that tolling operations would commence immediately after nearly four years of free usage.
He added that certain categories of vehicles would be exempted from toll payments.
These include emergency response vehicles such as ambulances, fire service trucks, and law enforcement patrol vehicles.
Others are the State Government’s official vehicles and any additional exemptions as determined by the government.
Nine persons have been confirmed while three others sustained various levels of injury in an early morning crash along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
The accident which happened Ayetoro Area along the expressway involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number Uyo, UYY 165 ZY and a MAN truck with registration number DKA 244 XC.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps, the bus which was reportedly on excessive speed rammed into the truck which was stationed.
The driver of the bus who was said to have been tired, according to a statement by the Ogun FRSC Public Education Officer, Chief Route Commander, Florence Okpe, immediately lost his life and that of others.
The statement further explained that while the injured victims were taken to Famobis Hospital in Mowe, the deceased were deposited at Idera Morgue in Sagamu.
The statement reads, “The fatal crash occurred at the early hours this morning about 0530HRS on Lagos-Ibadan expressway around Ayetoro area.
“A total of 13 people were involved which comprised of 10 male adult and 03 female adult and 09 were recorded killed (06 male and 03 female) while 03 were injured. “The suspected causes of the fatal crash were excessive speed and fatigue which led to loss of control and the driver rammed into a station truck.
“The injured victims were taken to Famobis Hospital Mowe while the deceased were deposited at Idera morgue Sagamu.”
According to the Public Education Officer, the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Fasakin Akinwumi is pained by the recklessness of some drivers for not observing the stipulated speed limit and refusal to obey the 15 minutes rest after 4 hrs journey.
“He sympathize with the family of the crash victims and enjoined them to contact Mowe unit Command for more information about the crash,” the statement further said.
President Bola Tinubu has officially launched the reconstruction and expansion of the Lagos-Ibadan Dual Carriageway ,Section 1, and Section 1 of the Lagos-Sagamu Expressway, reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Sagamu, Ogun State, President Tinubu, represented by Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, announced that the project is expected to be completed within 24 months.
The initiative will include the construction of underpasses at Kara, Wawa, Magboro, and Arepo, as well as flyover bridges at Kilometer 16, near the Mountain of Fire Ministries ,MFM, and Kilometer 37 at Makun, Sagamu.
Additionally, pedestrian bridges will be installed at key locations, including Arepo, Magboro, NASFAT, Deeper Life, and Redemption Camp.
The president also disclosed that the government would commence the construction of the remaining 60-kilometer stretch of the Sagamu-Benin Expressway from the Sagamu Interchange to Itele.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, President Tinubu described it as the busiest highway in Nigeria and a crucial link between Lagos, the nation’s commercial hub and 17 southern states.
Emphasizing the fundamental role of road infrastructure in economic growth, mobility, and quality of life, President Tinubu acknowledged the prolonged neglect of the expressway, which has resulted in numerous accidents and fatalities.
He assured that the project’s completion would significantly reduce travel time, improve efficiency and productivity, enhance safety, and facilitate ease of doing business across the country.
The inclusion of the Sagamu-Ore Expressway in this phase further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring Nigeria’s road networks meet international standards and support economic expansion and industrial development.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, elaborated on the scope of the project, explaining that it includes key infrastructural improvements, such as underpasses at Magboro, Warewa, Arepo, Sagamu, and Iperu, covering a total of 24 kilometers.
He further outlined the subsequent phase, which will extend from Iperu to Ijebu-Ode, spanning an additional 48 kilometers.
Senator Umahi emphasized financial accountability, directing that no contractor should receive payment without a valid Advanced Payment Guarantee ,APG certificate and Performance Bond.
Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting the Ministry of Works in ensuring Nigerians benefit from well-maintained road networks.
He stressed that the project would have a far-reaching economic impact beyond Ogun State.
Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ade Akinsanya, expressed appreciation for the inclusion of pedestrian bridges in the project.
He assured that the state government would collaborate closely with contractors and federal officials to ensure timely project completion.
The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, called for additional flyovers at the Sagamu junction and the police divisional junction, along with the establishment of a fire station to respond to emergencies along the expressway.
In a shocking display of extreme overloading, some images captured the reckless transportation practices common on African roads.
In one instance, a tricycle struggled under the massive weight of a large water tank, while in another, a compact car carried multiple cows and heavy sacks, defying safety regulations.
These scenes not only highlighted the dangers of improper load management but also raise concerns about road safety enforcement.
One person has died while six others sustained varying degrees of injuries in a fatal motor accident involving a Lexus car and a Zafira Space Wagon that occurred along the Abeokuta/Ibadan highway near Ajobo village.
According to a statement by the spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola, eyewitness accounts indicated that the accident was caused by the reckless driving of the Lexus car by one 26-year-old Abiodun Michael of Isolu, Funaab Road, Abeokuta, who was travelling toward Abeokuta from Ibadan.
The statement explained that the Lexus driver while negotiating a sharp bend, reportedly failed to slow down, lost control, and veered off his lane, colliding head-on with the Zafira car, driven by 55-year-old Kayode Popoola who was coming from the opposite direction, and died on the spot, while his occupants sustained injuries.
It showed that immediately after the matter was received, the DPO Odeda Division swiftly dispatched motor traffic police and patrol teams to the scene to rescue the victims and secure the area.
The statement said that the injured victims were taken to General Hospital, Odeda, for urgent medical attention while those with fractures were later transferred to FMC Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, for specialized treatment, as the family of the deceased had retrieved his body for burial under Islamic rites.
It stated that the police were actively working to apprehend the driver of the Lexus car who was at large, to bring him to justice.
The statement indicated that the Ogun State Police Command had urged anyone with relevant information regarding the whereabouts of the fleeing driver or any witnesses to the accident to assist with the investigation, towards ensuring that the driver face the full weight of the law.
Similarly, an accident involving a truck and a commercial vehicle at 110 area along the Ibadan, Abeokuta expressway has caused severe gridlock along the axis
The accident forced many motorists to navigate other routes to their destinations.
Though no deaths or casualties were recorded at the time of filing in this report, it was however observed that security personnel, as well as officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, were on the ground to ensure sanity around the axis Some road users, who spoke with our reporter, lamented the difficulty caused by the accident, which according to them, would lead to lateness to their places of work.
A legal practitioner, Barrister Abiodun Amole says the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun or any of his officers lack the power to enforce third-party insurance in the country.
Mr Amole said this during an interview with newsmen in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
IGP Egbetokun had earlier ordered his men to enforce third-party insurance nationwide starting from !st of February 2025.
Amole, in his reaction, described the action of the Police as illegal and unconstitutional.
The legal luminary noted that the Police Act is the extant law which strictly regulates the operations and or powers of the Police in Nigeria.
He said, “In my humble opinion, the Police lack the power to enforce the 3rd party insurance policy among motorists in Nigeria.
“Again, an insurance policy is essentially a contract between the insurer and the insured party. It is not the duty of the police to enforce a contract or agreement between parties.
“The Police cannot confer on itself the power not given to it by law, the Police Act.
“It is not so stated and therefore cannot be read or imported into it by the police authorities under any guise whatsoever”.
The National Orientation Agency, NOA, on Friday met with Tanker Drivers in Akinyele Area of Ibadan, Oyo State in an effort to reduce requent tanker accidents in the country.
At the meeting ,Director-General of the Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu urged the drivers to always ensure that their vehicles were in good condition before travelling.
He also told them to always obey traffic rules and avoid consuming alcohol while driving.
Mallam Issa-Onilu, however, gave the drivers assurance that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was committed to fixing all the failed portions of roads in the country to reduce road crashes and preserve the sanctity of lives.
,DG, NOA,Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu
The NOA Director-General also warned Nigerians to desist from the act of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, noting that, scooping of fuel had often resulted to loss of many lives and property.
He expressed the President ‘s grief over recent tanker explosions in some parts of the country, including Enugu and Niger States where many lives were lost.
Mallam Issa-Onilu appealed to Nigerians to always be their brothers keepers by rendering assistance to the people in need, instead of looking for ways of looting from scenes of any unfortunate incident.
He raised the hope of Nigerians that policies being put in place by the Federal Government to cushion the effect of economic hardship would soon yield positive result.
Earlier, Director, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Oyo State Directorate, Dr Olukemi Afolayan, promised the Tanker Drivers Association that the Agency would always be in touch with them to get their complaints, commendations and requests across to the Federal Government
R-L Dir. NOA, Oyo,Olukemi Afolayan,DG, NOA,Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu
Responding, some of the members of the Tanker Drivers Association in Akinyele, Akinyele Local Government of Oyo State, commended the National Orientation Agency, NOA, for the meeting.
They called on the government to build Trailer Parks with Modern Facilities for them to relax anytime they embarked on long journey, to help their physical and mental fitness for the journey ahead of them.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has said that his government would continue to come up with innovative ideas and build the right partnerships that would bring about desired development and propel the state into a great future.
He stated this at the official launch of the first phase of telecommunications and digitalisation partnership between a telecommunication company and Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), held at the Local Government Training School, Secretariat,Ibadan.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, noted that the partnership embodies the vision of his administration to use technology to address the challenges of governance, enhance efficiency and improve the quality of life for every citizen of the state.
He added that the innovation would create safer roads, reduce travel times, enhance the efficiency of the transportation network and also address challenges in road management through digitalisation.
The governor urged stakeholders to support the transformation and comply with traffic regulations and the state government’s efforts in digitalising and optimising the traffic management system.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), noted that the collaboration represents a giant leap forward in collective effort to enhance road safety, optimise traffic flow, improve the experience of every road user and also modernise traffic management system in Oyo State.
He added that the first phase of the partnership would introduce a series of cutting-edge initiatives aimed at enhancing the internal operations and overall traffic experience for Oyo State residents.
The OYRTMA explained that the initiatives would include the launch of the closer user group designed for OYRTMA staff to improve communication, foster collaboration and streamline internal operations.
Other parts of the initiatives are advanced traffic management infrastructure through deployment of state-of-the-art surveillance cameras at strategic locations across the state for better monitoring; real time traffic management and control centre for quick response to emergencies and controlling of traffic as well as provision of operational equipment for overall operational effectiveness.
The Ekiti State Government has expressed the readiness of the State Cargo Airport to commence full operations.
The Commissioner for Information, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun, stated this after receiving a team from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency NAMA, who arrived at the airport in a calibration plane to conduct a working flight operation.
He emphasized that the project would transform the state’s economy and position Ekiti as a hub for industrial activities.
Addressing concerns about the deteriorated Ado-Ijan road that provides access to the airport, the commissioner assured residents that the road’s rehabilitation had been approved by the Federal Government, while reconstruction would commence shortly.
The Chairman of the Ekiti Airport Project, Retired Air Vice Marshal Sunday Makinde, explained that the NAMA team was at the airport to inspect key systems, including navigation aids, communication systems with the control tower and other critical parameters required for smooth flight operations.
Retired Air Vice Marshall Makinde also confirmed the airport’s readiness for flight operations, noting that only minor arrangements remain to enable full commercial flight services.
