The Ogun State Government has stated that emergency medical teams and the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived at the site of a recent highway crash along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway within 10 minutes of being notified, rejecting assertions by Nollywood actor Kunle Afod that responders delayed for 20 minutes.
According to official records, a passerby alerted authorities at the FRSC post in Ogere—where a state medical vehicle was stationed—at 12:18 p.m., and responders reached the crash location in Saapade at 12:28 p.m. after navigating traffic to access the opposite lane. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, released a statement on Saturday confirming that the Ogun State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (OGSAES) acted rapidly to preserve lives.
What was the timeline and response mechanism deployed?
Authorities reported that six designated ambulance stations operate between OPIC and Ogunmakin along the expressway, though the state emergency hotline received no direct distress calls regarding the incident. Alongside medical teams, the Nigeria Police Force and the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency participated in the operation. Casualties were transported to Victory Hospital in Ogere for initial care, while severely injured victims were transferred by state ambulance to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu.
Why did the government accuse the actor of bias?
While expressing condolences to the bereaved families and wishing survivors a quick recovery, the government criticized Afod for allegedly politicizing the tragedy. Officials claimed the actor produced campaign material for Ladi Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party governorship contender in the state, asserting that his video commentary aimed to generate unfavorable publicity for the current administration.
“It is unfortunate that a partisan Nollywood actor chose to purvey falsehood out of spite, making utter mockery of the respected industry he represents,” the statement read, adding that the administration remains focused on public safety rather than politically driven distractions.
How can motorists prevent highway emergencies?
The government reminded drivers to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, avoid speeding and hazardous overtaking, and maintain roadworthy vehicles. Furthermore, authorities clarified that the national emergency digits 112 are not yet operational in the state due to delays by the Nigerian Communications Commission, urging residents to utilize the dedicated state emergency line, 08112000033, for urgent assistance.