Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Lives of Vigilante Group Members in Benin
Two members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria were killed in a hit-and-run by a trailer on the Benin–Lagos Expressway. Eyewitness accounts vary regarding the circumstances. The police confirmed the incident and are investigating, as calls for road safety and justice grow stronger in the community.
In a tragic incident early Tuesday, two members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) lost their lives when a trailer struck them along the Benin–Lagos Expressway, near the University of Benin in Edo State. The victims were riding a motorcycle when the trailer, allegedly speeding, collided with them before fleeing the scene, leaving behind a wake of shock and grief.
Eyewitness accounts of the event vary. Some witnesses alleged that the vigilantes attempted to signal the trailer, while others contended that a minibus may have caused the initial collision before the trailer ran over them. It is, thus, unclear how exactly the tragedy unfolded.
“It was horrifying. The trailer didn’t even slow down. One of the men had his head crushed instantly,” recounted a nearby hawker, visibly shaken by the scene. “People screamed, but the driver just kept going.” This sentiment reverberated through the crowd, as onlookers expressed outrage over the carelessness of drivers on the highway, raising concerns about the security of volunteer group members.
Moses Yamu, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is in progress. Efforts are being made to track down the hit-and-run driver, who remains at large. Meanwhile, the remains of the deceased have been transported to a local morgue.
The local community has urged anyone with information about the driver’s whereabouts to come forward, emphasizing the need for swift justice and accountability. The incident has shone a light on the risks faced by security volunteers in the region, as calls for enhanced road safety have grown louder in the aftermath of this tragedy.
The families of the victims, especially identified as Mustapha, are now grappling with the loss while the police continue their investigation. This heart-wrenching event highlights both the dangers on Nigerian roads and the sacrifices made by vigilante groups committed to ensuring community safety.
The unfortunate demise of two members of the Vigilante Group in a hit-and-run accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by security volunteers and the reckless driving prevalent on Nigerian roads. As investigations proceed, authorities have urged the public to assist in bringing the responsible driver to justice, while the community mourns the loss of two individuals committed to public safety.
Original Source: guardian.ng
