A tragic road accident in Lokoja on Friday morning claimed the lives of two female students from the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) and Kogi State Polytechnic. The incident occurred along the Felele axis of the state capital.
The accident involved a heavily loaded truck en route to Abuja that lost control and crashed into a tricycle, commonly known as Keke NAPEP, which was carrying passengers toward the city center.
Reports indicate that four passengers were in the tricycle. While two sustained critical injuries, the other two, both students, died on the spot.
One of the deceased was identified as Covenant Omolola Isaac, a Geology student at the Federal University Lokoja, based on an identification card recovered from the scene. The second victim, Taiwo Abimbola, was later identified by her colleagues as a Higher National Diploma (HND) student in Science Laboratory Technology at Kogi State Polytechnic.
Officials from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) promptly transported the injured passengers to the State Specialist Hospital in Lokoja for urgent medical care.
The National Association of Science Laboratory Technology (Kogi State Polytechnic chapter) confirmed Taiwo Abimbola’s passing in a condolence statement issued by its president, Akor Kelvin:
“It is with great sorrow that we announce the untimely death of our dear member, ABU TAIWO ABIMBOLA, 2023/HSLT/MCB/087, who tragically passed away in a road accident along Felele Road, Lokoja.
“ABIMBOLA was more than just a member of our association. She was a beacon of hope and an inspiration to all who knew her. Her kindness, dedication, and commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone around her.
“As we mourn this devastating loss, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones. We pray they find the strength and comfort to navigate this difficult time.
“In honor of her memory, the association will hold a memorial service to celebrate her life and contributions. Details of this tribute will be announced soon, and we invite everyone to join us in paying their last respects.
“TAIWO ABIMBOLA will always remain in our hearts. May her soul and the souls of all the departed rest in perfect peace. Amen.”
This tragic incident has left both academic institutions and the Lokoja community in mourning as they come to terms with the loss of two young and promising individuals.