The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, has visited Akungba-Akoko for an on-the-spot assessment following Monday’s fatal accident that claimed eight lives, including a student of Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA).
The tragedy occurred on October 22, 2025, when a HOWO truck with registration number JJJ 365 XB, belonging to DeGreat Rismub Company, lost control while descending the Akungba axis of the road, killing eight people and injuring several others.
The incident sparked grief and a peaceful protest by students of AAUA, who demanded justice and called for the reinstatement of the barricade previously erected to restrict heavy-duty vehicles from passing through the town.
During his visit on Wednesday, CP Lawal met with students and local leaders at the accident scene, assuring them that immediate steps were being taken to prevent a recurrence. The Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Adelami, who also visited the community, joined the Commissioner of Police in addressing the protesters and pledged that the state government would take urgent corrective and preventive measures.
CP Lawal commended the students for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the protest and urged them to remain calm and law-abiding as authorities addressed their concerns.
Demonstrating immediate action, the Commissioner personally supervised the reinstallation of the iron beam barricade with the help of local artisans and directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Akungba to ensure constant surveillance in the area.
He also extended condolences to the bereaved families, the AAUA community, and residents of Akungba, praying for the repose of the victims’ souls.
In appreciation, representatives of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the AAUA Students’ Union commended the Commissioner and the state government for their prompt intervention and empathy.
CP Lawal expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his leadership and operational guidance, and to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to the safety and welfare of Ondo residents.
He reaffirmed the police command’s resolve to work closely with the state government, university management, and community stakeholders to ensure lasting safety in the area, adding that investigations into the crash were ongoing to ensure justice is served.