Global General

Special

Newsmaker

Asia Pacific

America

Middle East

Europe

Africa

At least 228 killed in road accidents in Nigeria's Edo State

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-10-05 19:26

LAGOS - At least 228 people have lost their lives in car accidents in southeast Nigeri's Edo State since the beginning of this year, according to a local official.

Henry Olatunji, a top official with the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) who unveiled the toll, also disclosed that 1,302 others sustained serious injuries, the  News Agency of Nigeria reported on Monday.

Olatunji said 342 road accidents were recorded, involving 611 vehicles in the past months. Up to 4,942 vehicles were impounded in Benin metropolis for various traffic offences during the period under review, he added.

Olatunji advised vehicle and motorcycle owners to ensure prompt vehicle maintenance, asking the public to caution and report erring motorists at the relevant authorities.

"This can help to minimize accidents on our roads," he said.

The poor condition of roads, over-speeding, over-loading and reckless driving are blamed for the frequent road accidents in the country.