By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh.
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, visited the Federal University Lokoja on Monday to offer condolences following a tragic auto accident that claimed the lives of six students along the Felele—Abuja highway in Lokoja.
He was represented by his Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu
joined by Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Hilary Ojoma Egwudah and State Security Adviser Commodore Jerry Omodara (Rtd
In a statement released by the Deputy Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Unubi Emmanuel, Governor Ododo expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as a “dreadful and horrific tragedy.”
He assured the university community that the government is committed to safeguarding students’ lives and their well-being, sharing in the grief felt by the entire state.
The Governor also informed the university community that he has notified the Minister of Works, who is set to visit Kogi soon to assess the situation and explore measures to prevent similar accidents.
Commending the students for their composed response to the tragedy, Governor Ododo emphasized his commitment to improving road safety.
He instructed the Kogi Road Maintenance Agency to assess the Felele road for potential pedestrian bridges and directed the State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to establish checkpoints and enforce speed regulations on the highway.
In response to the accident, the Governor set up a committee consisting of various stakeholders, including the Security Adviser, Commissioners for Youth and Sports and Education, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Lokoja, the Student Union President, and representatives from the FRSC, NURTW, and other relevant bodies.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, expressed appreciation for the state’s support and called for measures to prevent further accidents.
He suggested the construction of the Agbaja-Felele road and additional buses for students’ transport.
The Student Union President, Comrade Benjamin Olorunfemi Timothy, also voiced frustration over the recurring accidents.
He appealed to the government for better safety infrastructure, including pedestrian facilities along the Felele road, and called for more effective police protection of students rather than harassment.
The Deputy Governor later chaired an emergency meeting, where officials discussed measures to enhance student safety, secure accommodations, and provide support for the families of the victims.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
