By Two people lost their lives after a Toyota Avensis veered off the road and plunged into the Ariyo River along the Amuloko-Akanran Road in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The incident occurred late Friday night, prompting an emergency response from the Oyo State Fire Services Agency.
According to the agency, a distress call was received at about 9:40 p.m. on May 29, reporting that a vehicle had lost control while in motion and fallen into the river.
Firefighters led by Assistant Chief Fire Superintendent (ACFS) Amoo were immediately deployed to the scene. On arrival, rescue personnel confirmed that the vehicle had become submerged in the river after swerving off the roadway.
The rescue team commenced operations and successfully recovered two occupants from the vehicle. Both victims were later handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force from Ogbere Target Police Station, led by ASP Adesuwa Sesan, for further necessary action.
Officials said preliminary investigations indicated that the crash resulted from excessive speed and brake failure.
“The rescue team immediately commenced operations using all necessary rescue procedures and successfully recovered two casualties from the vehicle,” the agency stated.
Emergency responders remained at the scene until the area was secured before returning to their station in the early hours of Saturday.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser on Fire Services Reform and Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, Hon. Dr. Moroof Adebayo Akinwande, urged motorists to prioritise safety on the roads.
He advised drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition before embarking on journeys and warned against overspeeding.
“Motorists should ensure all parts of their vehicles are functioning properly and avoid overspeeding to prevent avoidable tragedies,” Akinwande said.
The fire service also called on residents to promptly report fire outbreaks and rescue emergencies, stressing the importance of providing accurate location details to facilitate swift response.
