A devastating incident occurred in Ute, a community in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, where a road grader reportedly crushed a mother and her child to death along the Olujewu–Igbatoro Road.
The victims, whose names have not yet been revealed, were reportedly killed by the grader, which was owned by the local government.
The construction vehicle, engaged in a road project in the town, reportedly experienced brake failure, resulting in the tragic accident.
The State Police Command’s spokesperson, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation had been initiated.
The Chairman of the Local Government, Kolapo Ojo, who verified the incident, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic deaths and offered condolences to the bereaved family.
The statement, titled “Ose Local Government Mourns Tragic Loss in Ute Community,” read: “It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I, Hon. Barr. Clement Kolapo Ojo, Chairman of Ose Local Government area, address the people of Ute community and the entire local government over the deeply saddening incident that claimed the lives of a beloved mother and her young child along the Olujewu–Igbatoro Road.
“The tragic accident, which occurred as a result of brake failure in a grader owned by the local government and deployed for road rehabilitation under our rural development programme, has brought great pain to all of us.
“What was intended as a noble effort to improve access and infrastructure within the community has now become a moment of intense grief.
“This is a loss that touches us all, not just as a government, but as members of one human family. A hardworking mother and her innocent child set out to the farm like on any other day, only to have their lives cut short in the most heartbreaking way. No words can adequately express the sadness and regret we feel as a government and as a people.
“As soon as the incident was reported, officials from Ose Local Government promptly visited the scene to offer condolences to the grieving family, stand in solidarity with the Ute community, and assess the situation directly. This visit was not merely symbolic; it was a sincere act of compassion and responsibility.
“I want to assure the entire community that we are not taking this matter lightly. We have commenced a full investigation into the cause of the mechanical failure, and we are reviewing all safety protocols to ensure that such a devastating occurrence never repeats itself. The safety of our people will always be a top priority.
“We recognise the unimaginable pain this has caused the immediate family, and we are committed to providing support—emotionally, morally, and where necessary, materially. Their grief is our grief, and their pain is one we share collectively as a community.
“On behalf of the Ose Local Government Council and the good people of the entire local government area, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the deceased, as well as to the entire Ute community. May the Almighty comfort you, strengthen you, and grant eternal rest to the departed souls.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli