The immediate past Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Sadiku Abubakar Ohere, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of six students from the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), while leaving several others injured.
The heart-wrenching incident occurred yesterday, sending shockwaves through the local community and beyond.
In a statement signed today in Abuja, the former lawmaker conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased students, describing the loss as “devastating and heartbreaking.”
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Senator Ohere, who had served as a representative of the district, said the accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing road safety measures, particularly in a region with heavy vehicular traffic.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their children in this tragic accident,” Senator Ohere said.
“The pain and sorrow they are experiencing are unimaginable, and I stand with them during this difficult time. I also wish a swift recovery to those who have been injured and remain hopeful that they will receive the care and support they need.”
The senator went on to call on the government to urgently revisit safety protocols put in place during the previous administration, emphasizing the need for a thorough evaluation of road safety measures in the state.
“We must learn from this tragedy,” he stated. “Government must ensure that the necessary safety measures, including road infrastructure improvements, enforcement of traffic laws, and the provision of proper medical response mechanisms, are not only maintained but also enhanced where needed.”
Senator Ohere urged that a holistic approach be adopted to address the root causes of such accidents, advocating for the inclusion of more road safety education, regular maintenance of public roads, and the upgrading of emergency services to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The incident, which occurred on a busy stretch of road, has raised concerns about the adequacy of safety standards and enforcement in the region, with many locals calling for urgent reforms. As the community grapples with the shock and sadness of this loss, Senator Ohere’s call for actionable solutions aims to prevent further tragedies while ensuring that the memories of the lost students are honored through meaningful change.
The authorities have yet to release full details of the cause of the accident, but the tragic event has sparked widespread outcry, with various groups demanding that government prioritize safety and protect vulnerable students and commuters.
In the coming days, further investigations are expected to shed light on the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. However, the heartfelt plea from Senator Ohere is clear: it is time for the government to act, not just in mourning but in laying the groundwork for safer roads and a safer future for all.