Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Lives of Vigilante Group Members in Benin

Two members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria were killed by a hit-and-run driver on the Benin-Lagos Expressway. Eyewitness reports are mixed but indicate a trailer struck them before fleeing. The police have launched an investigation and are appealing for information regarding the driver.

On Tuesday morning, in a tragic incident along the Benin-Lagos Expressway, two members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria were killed by a hit-and-run driver. This occurred right in front of the University of Benin, located in the Ugbowo area of Edo State. One of the deceased has been identified as Mustapha, as authorities were able to find his identity card at the scene. The victims were on a motorcycle when they were struck by a trailer, which was reportedly speeding before fleeing the scene immediately after the collision.

Eyewitness accounts of the event remain inconsistent. Some witnesses claim that the vigilantes may have tried to signal the trailer, possibly leading to the crash. Others assert that a minibus struck them before the trailer hit them, causing the devastating consequences. A roadside vendor who observed the incident described it as horrifying, stating, “The trailer didn’t even slow down. One of the men had his head crushed instantly. People screamed, but the driver just kept going.”

The aftermath of the incident quickly attracted the attention of bystanders and local residents, many expressing dismay at the recklessness of drivers on the highway. They noted the vulnerability of individuals, especially security volunteers like the vigilantes, who put themselves at risk for public safety. The local community was visibly shaken by the sudden loss and the graphic nature of the accident.

Authorities have since responded formally to the situation. Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, confirmed the tragic event and stated that an investigation into the incident is underway. Police are actively working to track down the driver who fled the scene. In the meantime, the remains of the victims have been taken to a local morgue.

As the investigation continues, the police are appealing for public assistance, requesting any information that might lead to the apprehension of the hit-and-run driver. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding road safety and the need for better protection of local security volunteers, who often operate under perilous conditions.

The hit-and-run incident along the Benin-Lagos Expressway claimed the lives of two vigilantes, raising alarms about road safety and the dangers faced by security volunteers. Despite conflicting eyewitness accounts, it is clear that a trailer struck them before fleeing the scene. The local police have confirmed the investigation is ongoing, urging residents to assist in gathering information related to the tragic event. This incident underscores the vulnerability of community members working for public safety amid reckless driving on busy highways.

Original Source: guardian.ng