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Just In: Dangote Truck Crashes into Mercedes-Benz, Killing Three in Auchi, Edo State

A tragic road accident on Sunday has thrown the bustling town of Auchi, Edo State, into mourning after a Dangote Cement truck reportedly suffered brake failure and rammed into a white Mercedes-Benz GLK, killing three people on the spot. The fatal incident occurred directly opposite the headquarters of Omega Fire Ministries, along the busy Benin-Okene Expressway, sparking panic among motorists and residents.

How the Tragedy Unfolded

Eyewitnesses recounted that the Dangote truck, said to be heading towards the Okene axis, suddenly lost control after its brakes failed. In the terrifying seconds that followed, the heavy-duty truck rammed into the Mercedes-Benz GLK, a luxury vehicle carrying four occupants.

The impact was devastating. The GLK was crushed under the weight of the truck, leaving three occupants lifeless. The fourth passenger was rescued in critical condition and rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.

Secondary Collision with BUA Truck

The force of the crash pushed the Dangote truck forward, where it collided head-on with another truck belonging to BUA Group, which was approaching from the Benin axis. The collision triggered an explosion that engulfed the Dangote truck in flames.

Motorists and residents at the scene scampered for safety as thick black smoke billowed into the sky. Emergency responders, including the fire service, later arrived at the scene to battle the raging flames and prevent further escalation.

Scene of Chaos Near Omega Fire Ministries

The accident caused heavy gridlock on the Benin-Okene Expressway and tension around Omega Fire Ministries’ headquarters. Worshippers and passersby gathered in shock as rescue operations were carried out.

Apostle Johnson Suleman, General Overseer of the ministry, expressed sadness over the tragedy. In a statement, he lamented the rising cases of road crashes involving heavy-duty trucks in the area, describing the loss of lives as “avoidable and heartbreaking.”

Police and Official Confirmation

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the bodies of the deceased had been deposited at the morgue while the wreckage of the vehicles was being cleared to restore the free flow of traffic.

Police spokespersons added that investigations were ongoing, particularly to establish whether the Dangote truck was properly maintained before embarking on the journey.

Recurring Concern Over Heavy-Duty Trucks

The accident once again raises concern over the safety of Nigerian roads and the frequent cases of brake failure involving trucks carrying cement, petroleum, and other heavy goods. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to demand stricter regulation of truck maintenance and operations.

The involvement of two of Nigeria’s biggest companies—Dangote Group and BUA Group—has further sparked conversations about corporate accountability in ensuring the roadworthiness of their vehicles.

DocuNews Central’s Call

At DocuNews Central, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and urge authorities to take urgent steps to address the menace of unsafe heavy-duty trucks on Nigerian highways. The lives lost are not just statistics; they are families torn apart, dreams cut short, and communities left grieving.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a painful reminder of the need for stricter road safety laws, improved enforcement, and routine checks for trucks plying Nigerian roads.

Conclusion

The Auchi accident is not just a local tragedy but a national concern. The loss of three precious lives opposite one of Edo State’s most popular churches underscores the fragility of life and the dangers that lurk daily on Nigerian highways.

DocuNews Central will continue to follow developments on this story and provide updates as more information emerges.

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