Fourteen years ago, on this very day, I survived a deadly auto crash on the Okini-Lokoja expressway. It was an event that forever changed my perspective on life, instilling in me a deep sense of gratitude toward the Almighty Allah. Alhamdulillah, for I am still here, able to share this story with you. The cause of the accident was a combination of overspeeding, overtaking, and the narrow, single-lane road—a deadly cocktail that claimed eight lives and left many others injured or scarred for life. This tragedy highlights a pressing issue: the safety of our highways and the urgent need for government action to prevent such incidents from occurring again.
The Day of the Accident
I remember
that day with vivid clarity. The expressway was bustling with traffic, a
typical sight on Nigerian highways. It was a busy road, with vehicles
constantly jockeying for position, and overtaking was common despite the risks
involved. As I travelled down this treacherous stretch, I witnessed reckless
behaviour from other drivers—speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and
dangerous overtaking manoeuvres. Little did I know that these actions would
culminate in a horrific accident that would change my life forever.
The
collision was sudden and violent. Vehicles crumpled upon impact, and the sound
of metal crashing into metal echoed across the expressway. The scene was
chaotic—screams, smoke, and the smell of burning rubber filled the air.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but for some, it was too late. Eight
people lost their lives that day, and many others sustained serious injuries.
The tragedy was a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in our roadways and
the importance of taking road safety seriously.
A Call for Action
The accident
on the Okini-Lokoja expressway was not an isolated incident. In Nigeria, road
accidents are alarmingly common, with thousands of lives lost each year due to
various factors such as overspeeding, reckless driving, poor road conditions,
and inadequate traffic enforcement. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps
(FRSC), speeding is responsible for a significant proportion of road accidents
in Nigeria. This statistic underscores the urgent need for government action to
address these issues and ensure the safety of all road users.
The Need for Safer Highways
One of the
primary causes of road accidents in Nigeria is the state of our highways. Many
roads are narrow, poorly maintained, and lack basic safety features such as
guardrails, road signs, and proper lane markings. The Okini-Lokoja expressway,
where the accident occurred, was a prime example of a single-lane road with
heavy traffic and little room for error. When drivers are forced to share such
limited space, the likelihood of accidents increases significantly.
To address
this problem, the Nigerian government at all levels must prioritize the
maintenance and expansion of our road infrastructure. This includes widening
narrow roads, repairing potholes and other road defects, and ensuring that
highways are adequately lit and clearly marked. Additionally, traffic
enforcement must be strengthened to deter reckless driving and overspeeding.
The FRSC plays a critical role in this regard, but their efforts must be
supported by adequate resources and a commitment to enforcing traffic laws.
Raising Awareness and Changing Behavior
While
improving road infrastructure and enforcement are essential steps, raising
awareness about road safety is equally crucial. Many drivers in Nigeria are
unaware of the risks associated with overspeeding and overtaking, and a
comprehensive public education campaign is needed to change this mindset.
Government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations should work
together to promote road safety through educational programs, public service
announcements, and community outreach.
Drivers
must understand that their actions have consequences, not only for themselves
but for others on the road. Simple measures such as obeying speed limits,
refraining from dangerous overtaking, and wearing seat belts can save lives. By
fostering a culture of safety, we can reduce the number of road accidents and
create a safer environment for everyone.
A Personal Journey of Gratitude
As I
reflect on the accident that changed my life, I cannot help but feel overwhelming
gratitude for my survival. It was a life-altering event that reminded me of the
fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The fact that
I am still here today, able to share my story, is a testament to the grace of
Allah. Alhamdulillah, I am grateful for this second chance at life, and I
strive to use it to make a positive difference in the world.
My journey
from that fateful day has been one of healing, introspection, and a renewed
sense of purpose. I have made it my mission to advocate for road safety and
raise awareness about the dangers of reckless driving. By sharing my
experience, I hope to encourage others to drive safely, respect traffic laws,
and consider the well-being of others on the road.
Conclusion
The deadly
auto crash that occurred 14 years ago on the Okini-Lokoja expressway was a
tragic event that claimed eight lives and forever altered the course of my own.
It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for
government action to address the factors contributing to road accidents in
Nigeria. Through improved infrastructure, stricter enforcement, and a culture
of safety, we can work together to prevent future tragedies and ensure that our
highways are safe for all. Alhamdulillah, for the gift of life, and may we all
cherish it by driving responsibly and advocating for safer roads.
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