The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sympathy for the victims of a motor vehicle accident that occurred on Tuesday evening in Karu, Abuja.
The Minister also offered to cover the medical expenses for those affected by the incident.
In his statement, Wike described the accident as avoidable and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He also directed that the treatment of the injured be continued without delay.
Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the Minister explained that upon hearing about the accident, he immediately instructed the Mandate Secretary on Health and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, to ensure that the injured victims received prompt medical attention. Dr. Fasawe followed up on the Minister’s directive and was at the Asokoro District Hospital until the following morning, where she personally assisted in the treatment of the 17 casualties brought in.
“On my directive, the Mandate Secretary on Health and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, was in Asokoro District Hospital till today’s morning and she was among the medical personnel who attended to the 17 casualties brought to the hospital,” Wike said. “She briefed me that after initial stabilisation, seven of the 17 casualties received were referred to the National Hospital, six with minor injuries were treated successfully, three with severe burns and inhalation and crush injuries are currently receiving treatment. However, one of the casualties with third-degree burns passed away while being resuscitated.”
In light of the incident, the FCT Minister called on road users, particularly heavy-duty vehicle drivers, to exercise caution and adhere strictly to speed limits. He expressed regret over the loss of lives and the destruction of vehicles in what he described as an accident that could have been avoided.
Wike also urged the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to intensify efforts to ensure strict compliance with traffic rules, as part of measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
