Gas cylinder explodes during accident on Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway, 16 die

No fewer than 16 people were burnt beyond recognition, while three others sustained varying degrees of injury in a fatal crash near Buhari Estate along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway.

The Ogun State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps confirmed the incident in a statement released by its spokesperson, Florence Okpe.

According to Okpe, the lone crash that occurred around 1pm on Tuesday involved a white Mazda bus with number plate, 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, while 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 what he described as the carelessness of the driver.

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.