…pays divers to save lives
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, Monday, led a state delegation, including the Commissioner for Roads and Bridges, Hon. Osaze Ethan Uzamere, on an inspection of Ovia River Bridge to assess the level of damage. The bad spot on the river bridge has claimed so many lives, especialy since the rains set in this year.
On arrival at the River Bridge in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, it was discovered that another accident just occurred involving a truck, a Toyota Sienna vehicle and a Lexus car with a lady (name withheld) trapped in the Lexus car at the middle of the bridge.
Shaibu, was visibly heartbroken, hearing the cry of the helpless lady trapped in the wreckage of the Sienna car. On arrival at the scene, the Deputy Governor quickly swung into action, mobilizing the locals and passersby and actively got involved in the rescue operations. After much efforts, the lady was brought out alive and rushed to the hospital. Fortunately, the driver of the car and another female passenger came out of the crash apparently unhurt.
As for the Sienna car that plunged into the same river with its occupants, the Deputy Governor swiftly negotiated with some local divers, who made a demand of N1.5m and without hesitation, Shaibu immediately transferred the amount to the leader of the divers who provided his account details.
Some of the vehicles involved in the multiple accident were immediately towed from the road to allow for free flow of traffic.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver lost control due to overspeeding and hit a commercial Sienna car from the rear,while the Lexus 350 car went off-balance and obstructed another car in front.
The Deputy Governor, however, stated that the State Government will immediately carry out palliative measures as it has engaged Levante Construction Company.
He cautioned commuters to always ensure their vehicles are in good condition, particularly the break system before driving on the road. Shaibu later visited the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) to see victims of last week’s accident which occurred at the same Ovia River Bridge, giving them words of encouragement. He was received on arrival by the Chief Medical Director, Dr Darlington Obaseki.
