Brake failure triggers deadly crash along Oje–Beere route as truck ploughs into tricycles in busy market area

Six people have been confirmed dead and several others injured after a fuel-laden trailer lost control and rammed into multiple tricycles in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday.

The tragic incident occurred at the bustling Fruits Market along the Oje–Beere route in Ibadan South-East Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses said the trailer, reportedly carrying 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, suffered brake failure while descending the busy Mapo–Beere–Oje corridor.

A tricycle operator, Ademola Aderibigbe, who narrowly escaped death, said he had just left a mechanic workshop and was testing his vehicle when the crash occurred. He recalled hearing a loud impact before being shoved aside by the out-of-control truck, which continued its deadly path toward the Oje axis.

According to him, the trailer crushed more than five tricycles, killing at least six people on the spot. Other witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic, with victims rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Another eyewitness, Suleiman Oguntayo, said the driver first lost control near the Beere end, killing passengers in two tricycles before speeding into the crowded Oje market area, where more casualties were recorded.

Grief-stricken relatives gathered at the Mapo Divisional Police Station, where one family member revealed that a victim had only recently celebrated the birth of a child, leaving behind a newborn barely days old.

Some bystanders suggested the death toll could be higher, noting that several victims were difficult to immediately identify in the aftermath of the crash.

Police authorities confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are ongoing, while the exact number of casualties is yet to be officially finalised.