A bus driver lost control and rammed into a crowd of revelers at a New Year’s carnival in Nigeria, killing one and injuring three, shattering the festive mood.

The incident happened on Monday evening in Ikare Akoko, a town in Ondo state, southwest Nigeria, where youths were celebrating the start of 2024 with a procession along the road.

Driver Arrested, Victims Hospitalized

The Ondo State Police Command arrested and took into custody the driver of the bus, identified as Lezibi Usman.

The police spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami, said the bus hit four people during the carnival, killing one and injuring three. She said the deceased was Olatunji Sunday, a youth from the Olokelede area of Ikare. She added that the injured victims were receiving treatment at a hospital.

Cause of The Accident Unknown

According to a report by Punch, the cause of the accident is still under investigation, but some eyewitnesses said the driver may have been speeding or under the influence of alcohol.

One of them, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the driver lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the midst of the youths who were holding a procession from Ekan to Okela.

He said the accident happened in the Sago area of the community, where the carnival was at its peak.

He said the driver tried to flee the scene but was apprehended by some angry youths who wanted to lynch him.

Carnival in Nigeria

Carnival is a popular form of cultural expression and entertainment in Nigeria, especially during the festive season. Many towns and cities across the country organize carnivals to showcase their local traditions, costumes, music, and dance.

However, carnivals also pose some risks and challenges, such as traffic congestion, crowd control, security, and safety.

In 2023, several accidents and incidents marred some carnivals in Nigeria, such as a fire outbreak at the Lagos Carnival, a stampede at the Calabar Carnival, and a clash between rival groups at the Abuja Carnival.

Despite the tragedy that befell the Ikare Akoko carnival, many Nigerians are hopeful that 2024 will bring more peace, prosperity, and happiness to the country.

As the new year begins, many Nigerians are looking forward to a better future for themselves and their nation.