Tragedy in Ibadan: Three Killed, Five Rescued as Mini-Bus Plunges into Ariyo River Due to Reckless Driving"

 A tragic accident occurred on Wednesday, March 12, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State, when a passenger bus plunged into the Ariyo River along Amuloko Road, resulting in the deaths of three people.

The incident involved a Suzuki mini-bus with registration number OSUN LEW 484 XA, carrying a total of eight occupants. According to reports, the driver lost control of the vehicle—attributed to reckless driving—causing it to veer off the road and crash into the river.

The Oyo State Fire Services Agency swiftly responded following a distress call from Mrs. Fadeke Yusuf. Rescue personnel arrived at the scene and successfully pulled five survivors from the water, who were immediately rushed to Ona-Ara Private Hospital in the Jegede area for medical attention. Tragically, three lifeless bodies were recovered during the operation and handed over to officers from the Ogbere Divisional Police Headquarters, led by ASP Aishat Ibrahim.

The rescue effort was supported by personnel from the Oyo State Road Transport Management Agency (OYRTMA) Ona Ara Division, as well as Glorious Temitope, Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government.

Mr. Moroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Services Agency, confirmed the details in an official statement. He described the scene as chaotic, with eyewitnesses noting how the bus suddenly veered off course before plunging into the river. Akinwande emphasized the role of reckless driving in the crash and urged all motorists to exercise caution, adhere to road safety rules, and avoid unnecessary risks to prevent such avoidable tragedies.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in the region, where driver error and poor vehicle control continue to claim lives.