The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON, earlier today received the Ondo State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), CC Samuel Ibitoye (PhD), who, along with his team, paid a courtesy visit to congratulate him on his reappointment and officially submit the report on the tragic accident that claimed 30 lives in Ore earlier this month.
The fatal road traffic crash occurred on February 1, 2025, at Onipetesi along the Ore-Lagos Expressway, involving two commercial buses carrying a total of 32 passengers.
According to the FRSC report, both buses were speeding in violation of road traffic regulations. The GUO Transport Company bus, which was traveling from Lagos, was found to have driven against traffic, leading to a head-on collision with a Flight Transport Company bus coming from Gboko, Benue State, and heading to Lagos. The impact resulted in a fire outbreak, leaving 28 people burned beyond recognition. Of the four rescued victims, two succumbed to their injuries while being transported to the hospital, bringing the death toll to 30.
In his reaction, the Attorney General, who welcomed and saluted the leadership of the FRSC for being proactive, said the moment called for deep reflection and decisive action rather than congratulations.
“This incident is not only tragic but deeply disturbing. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is equally troubled and has been consistently following up on the matter. Receiving this official report is crucial to ensuring that the necessary legal steps are taken and that those found wanting are prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.” Dr. Ajulo stated.
Dr. Ajulo assured that those responsible would be held accountable, stating that now that an official report has been submitted following a thorough investigation and professional analysis, legal proceedings will commence.
This is Ondo State, and we will not allow anyone to come into our land and take the lives of innocent, law-abiding citizens due to sheer negligence. There are legal consequences under both civil and criminal law. Unfortunately, the driver responsible for this reckless act is dead, but the transport company that employed him, under whose name he carried out this act, remains in operation as a going concern. The company, its directors, and any other persons involved will face the full weight of the law for failing to uphold proper safety standards. This is a clear case of negligence and corporate manslaughter.” He affirmed.
The Attorney General reiterated the administration’s commitment to road safety and strict enforcement of traffic laws, adding that Governor Aiyedatiwa is concerned and remains resolute in ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future.
