16 AFUED Prospective Corps Members Die in Ondo–Gombe Road Crash
16 AFUED Prospective Corps Members Die in Ondo–Gombe Road Crash
16 AFUED Prospective Corps Members Die in Ondo–Gombe Road Crash
A devastating road accident occurred on the route from Ondo State to Gombe State involving an 18-seater bus transporting prospective members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
The victims were graduates of Adeyemi Federal University of Education (AFUED), Ondo State, who were traveling to the NYSC orientation camp in Gombe to begin their mandatory national service. The incident has left many families, the AFUED community, and the nation in deep mourning.
According to reports gathered, the tragic event claimed the lives of 16 prospective corps members, while only two individuals survived and are currently receiving intensive medical attention. The accident happened on a northern highway after the vehicle reportedly lost control and veered off the road. Although the exact cause of the crash has not been officially confirmed, early indications point to a possible mechanical failure or loss of vehicle stability.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is expected to lead a formal investigation to determine the precise circumstances that led to the disaster.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene to recover bodies and transport the injured survivors to the nearest medical facility. The loss has sent shockwaves across the AFUED community, with parents, friends, and colleagues expressing grief and disbelief.
The institution has described the incident as a monumental loss, considering the victims were young graduates preparing to serve their country.
In response to the tragedy, the NYSC management has extended condolences to the families affected and assured the public that appropriate support will be provided to the victims and their loved ones.
The accident has also reignited national conversations about road safety, especially concerning the long-distance travel many prospective corps members undertake to reach orientation camps. There are renewed calls for the federal government and relevant agencies to strengthen transport safety regulations, improve road infrastructure, and ensure that vehicles conveying young graduates are properly inspected and certified.
This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for more proactive measures to protect Nigerian youths during NYSC mobilization.
As the nation mourns the loss of these promising young minds, many hope that the investigation and subsequent reforms will prevent such a tragedy from recurring.
