Kazeem Awojoodu
Over millions of naira in items owned by Nigerian Breweries were damaged on Thursday after a vehicle transporting them experienced a technical problem and went out of control while climbing the Ori-Oke Mokola slope in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The event took place on the bustling road connecting Mokola to the Cultural Centre area of the Oyo State capital. A commercial tricycle, commonly referred to as Keke Maruwa, sustained damage in the collision, though there were no reported injuries.
At the location, the General Manager of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Commander Ayoade Adeoye, cited a technical issue that occurred as the truck ascended the challenging slope as the cause of the incident.
As per Adeoye, the car faced a comparable issue along the identical path approximately five days prior, leading to action taken by transportation authorities.
"The truck encountered an issue while ascending the hill towards the Cultural Centre, Ori-Oke Mokola. It had faced a comparable problem along this route approximately five days prior. While attempts were underway to relocate it, the vehicle experienced yet another mechanical malfunction and lost control alongside the cargo it was carrying," he stated.
Adeoye revealed that a large amount of the brewing company's goods were damaged during the event, leading to financial losses valued in the millions of Naira.
Although the accident was severe, he showed appreciation that no one died.
"Glory be to God, no lives were lost. We only noted damage to a Keke Maruwa, and thankfully, there were no drivers or passengers in the tricycle when the accident occurred," he further stated.
The head of OYRTMA pointed out that the impacted road functions as a key commercial route and economic center in Ibadan, highlighting its importance for business operations across the state.
He stated that vehicle movement on the road would be briefly limited to facilitate the removal of the truck and clearing of the debris.
"The path goes to Ori-Oke Mokola, an important commercial and economic center in Oyo State. The roadway will remain closed for some time as clearing activities proceed. We've put up warning ropes around the zone and assigned personnel to control traffic and guide drivers," Adeoye said.
He pledged to locals and drivers that measures were being taken to return regular traffic conditions as soon as feasible.
"By morning, all items should be gone and regular traffic back to normal," he stated. Adeoye also delivered a firm caution to drivers of large trucks, urging them to steer clear of the sharp Mokola Hill road because of the dangers associated with it.
"We recommend that truck operators avoid using this hill once more. It poses significant risks for large vehicles, and we aim to prevent any further accidents that might lead to fatalities," he cautioned.
Citizens and drivers were asked to work together with traffic authorities and follow safety guidelines as the clearing process remains ongoing.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Syndigate.info ).