By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
A tragic hit-and-run accident on Tuesday night along Rano Filling Station, Lokongoma Road, Lokoja, claimed the life of an Okada rider and left several others critically injured, after a suspected drug addict, identified as a native of Kupa in Lokoja Local Government Area, lost control of his vehicle.
Eyewitnesses said the driver, who was allegedly under the influence of drugs and alcohol, rammed into unsuspecting road users at high speed before crashing into two 33KV electricity poles.
The impact of the accident killed the Okada rider instantly, injured several pedestrians and passengers, and plunged parts of Lokongoma and adjoining communities into darkness.
Victims of the crash were rushed to the Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja and Kogi State Specialist Hospital, where medical officials confirmed receiving multiple casualties. Some victims remain in critical condition.
The situation almost turned violent as an angry mob descended on the suspect, attempting to lynch him.
However, Hon. Tijjani Shehu Bin Ebaiya, member representing Lokoja I Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, intervened to calm the crowd and ensured the suspect was handed over to security agencies.
“The crowd was ready to set him ablaze, but Hon. Bin Ebaiya pleaded with us to let the law handle the case,” one resident said.
The driver, described as a Kupa indigene, is currently in police custody.
The Kogi State Police Command has yet to release an official statement on the matter.
Meanwhile, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) confirmed that two 33KV poles were destroyed in the crash, cutting off supply to parts of Lokoja.
A spokesperson assured that engineers have been deployed to restore power soon.
“We sympathize with victims of this unfortunate incident. Our technical team is already working on solutions,” the AEDC official said.
Also reacting, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kogi condemned the incident, describing it as another tragic outcome of drug abuse and reckless driving.
An FRSC officer confirmed that investigations are ongoing, stressing the need for drivers to avoid substance use.
“We will intensify enforcement against dangerous driving and partner with stakeholders to reduce road carnage,” the officer noted.
Residents and community leaders have called on the government, NDLEA, and FRSC to step up campaigns against drug abuse and reckless driving, insisting that Tuesday’s incident should serve as a wake-up call to authorities.
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