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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
Tragedy struck in Ikare Akoko, Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Tuesday, when an articulated vehicle rammed into a carnival organised by the youths of the town, killing one person in the process.
The incident, which occured in Sago area of the ancient town, also left two others seriously injured.
It was gathered that the victims, who are youths, were celebrating the New Year with a carnival when the incident occurred.
The vehicle involved in the accident was identified as a J5 bus, which was said to be passing through the town.
An eyewitness said the driver of the vehicle lost control and rammed into the youths who were holding a procession along the road.
“This unfortunate incident affected youths from the Olokelede area of Ikare who were holding a procession from Ekan to Okela. The accident happened at the Sago area of the community.
“Two victims were seriously injured and were taken to the hospital but one of them gave up the ghost,” the eyewitness said.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has arrested the driver of the vehicle.
A statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami, said the driver, Lezibi Usman, is in custody, for allegedly killing a man identified as Olatunji Sunday.
Odunlami said the bus hit four persons during the carnival, killing one and injuring three
“The incident happened while the youths were holding their carnival. One person died while the other three are receiving treatment at a hospital. I have not got the names of the other three victims,” she said.