IBADAN, NIGERIA — Three people have been injured after a container-laden truck reportedly suffered brake failure at the busy Molete Underbridge area of Ibadan, Oyo State, causing panic and destruction.
The incident occurred on Saturday, April 25, 2026, along the Molete axis, a densely populated and high-traffic corridor linking major parts of the city.
Eyewitnesses said the truck, which was descending towards the underbridge, suddenly lost control after its braking system failed, forcing the driver to veer off course in an attempt to prevent a more devastating crash.
In the process, the truck rammed into a commercial tricycle and several motorcycles operating within the area, leaving at least three persons injured and destroying more than ten motorcycles.
Residents and passersby rushed to the scene immediately after the crash, assisting victims and helping to evacuate the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention.
Witnesses described the situation as chaotic, with people scrambling for safety as the heavy-duty vehicle moved uncontrollably through the crowded roadway.
Emergency responders, including traffic officials and security personnel, arrived promptly to manage the situation, control the crowd, and begin clearing the wreckage.
Authorities confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, but the injured victims sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment.
The accident caused heavy traffic congestion along the route, with vehicles stranded as efforts were made to remove the damaged truck and affected motorcycles.
Preliminary findings indicate that mechanical failure, particularly brake malfunction, was the likely cause of the incident, although officials say a detailed investigation is ongoing.
Road safety experts have repeatedly warned about the dangers posed by poorly maintained heavy-duty vehicles, especially in urban centres with high traffic volume.
The Molete Underbridge has long been identified as an accident-prone location due to its steep gradient and frequent movement of trucks and commercial vehicles.
Residents have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of vehicle safety regulations, including regular inspection of trucks and possible restrictions on their movement within city limits.
As normalcy gradually returns to the area, the incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for improved road safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
