The Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has visited the families of the children involved in last week’s tragic accident involving a trailer loaded with cement and primary school pupils in Egbolo, Igalamela-Odolu local government area. The accident claimed the lives of three pupils, while three others who sustained severe injuries are currently receiving medical treatment.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor on Teusday, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident, noting that Governor Ododo is a leader who understands the pain of his people, hence the directive to personally visit the families and the affected community to commiserate with them.
He described the incident as deeply painful, especially as an act of help extended to the children turned tragically into the cause of their death. He prayed that such occurrences would never happen again in the area.
The Governor urged the community to intensify prayers for the protection of their children and youths, stressing that they remain the future of the community. He assured the community that their requests would be given due consideration.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for God to grant the bereaved families and the entire community the strength to bear the loss.
Governor Ododo also used the opportunity to call on the community to work closely with the government and support his administration for the overall development of the area, stressing that all grievances from the 2023 elections have been settled.
Earlier, the Chairman of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area, Barrister Cosmas Atabor, described the incident as a tragic event. He explained that the driver of the trailer had opted to assist the pupils to a nearby community school when the vehicle suddenly failed brake and reversed into the river, causing the death of three and leaving three others severely injured. He appreciated the Governor for identifying with the families and the community during their time of grief.
On his part, the Director General of Kogi State Community Watch and Ancillary Matters, Hon. Muhammed Nasiru Alfa, condoled with the families of the deceased and prayed that God grants their souls eternal rest and continues to protect the community.
On behalf of the community, Mallam Idris Alih expressed gratitude to the Governor for identifying with them during their time of trial, noting that it is not every leader who visits to sympathize with his people, especially when it involves children. He appealed to the Governor to establish a secondary school in the community, noting that such a school would have prevented the pupils from traveling long distances for education.
Unubi Emmanuel
Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor,
Kogi State
December 9, 2025
