EPE News
Top Epe Division Stories This Week (Featuring Wale Raji, Alara of Ilara, Olu-Epe of Epe, Tobun, Epe Local Government, Princess Surah Animashaun, Aiyetoro Market)
Top Epe Division stories this week feature Hon Wale Raji, Olu-Epe of Epe, Alara of Ilara, Hon Abiodun Tobun, Epe Local Government, Aiyetoro Market and more.
Eko Hot Blog reports all the details below:
Epe Accident: Alara of Ilara Mourns Victims, Calls for Safety Measures to Prevent Future Tragedies
Oba Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, has expressed his deep sadness over the tragic accident in Epe on Monday morning, November 11, 2024.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the accident, which occurred at Aiyetoro Bus Stop, claimed several lives and left many others with varying degrees of injuries.
Reacting to the tragic incident, the monarch, in a statement signed on Wednesday and obtained by EKO HOT BLOG, expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and prayed for the swift recovery of those injured.
Oba Ogunsanwo urged the local government to collaborate with a dedicated task force to educate residents of the area on the dangers of roadside trading.
Full text of his statement below.
“On behalf of the people of Epe and the entire community, I join in mourning the victims of the tragic accident at Aiyetoro Bus Stop on Monday morning.
“This heartbreaking incident, which claimed the lives of several people and left others injured, is a painful reminder of the urgent need for collective action to ensure the safety of all road users.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost their loved ones, and I pray for the swift recovery of those injured.
To prevent such devastating incidents in the future, I would like to propose the following measures:
“It is crucial to install multiple speed breakers along the Epe-Ijebu Ode route, particularly at bends and accident-prone spots, to limit the speed of drivers and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
“I urge the local government to collaborate with a dedicated task force to educate our people on the dangers of roadside trading.
In addition to education, a strong commitment to enforcing a ban on street trading should be upheld to protect lives.
“To support those impacted by the enforcement of these safety measures, especially those without formal shops, I recommend providing palliative measures.
Temporary relief can help ease the transition, with a medium-term plan to integrate these traders into designated market spaces.
“This is a time for unity and action. Let us work together to build a safer and more secure community for everyone.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may we find the strength to carry forward in their memory.’
Epe Local Government Chairman, Princess Surah Animashaun, Visits Accident Victims at General Hospital Epe
Ekohotblog reports that the Chairman of Epe Local Government, Hon. Princess Surah Animashaun, visited the General Hospital Epe (GHE) to sympathize with the victims of the tragic accident that occurred on Monday, November 11, 2024
During the visit, she paid the full medical bills of all the victims and promised to provide more support to the local healthcare system.
Princess Animashaun expressed her deep sadness over the accident and assured the victims’ families of her continued support.
“My heart goes out to all the victims and their families during this difficult time,” she said. “I’ve taken care of the medical bills for the victims, and I will keep working to improve our healthcare system,to continue to support the people of Epe.”
Amb. Moibi Ibrahim, the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Epe, shared an update on the condition of the victims.
“Out of the 12 patients who were injured, 11 have already been discharged, and the last patient is recovering well,” Ibrahim said.
“Sadly, three people were brought in dead, and other families have taken their loved ones for burial.”
In light of the accident, Alonge Oluwayemisi, the Deputy Coordinator of the NYCN, called on the Chairman to take action to prevent future accidents.
We suggest creating parking areas for buses traveling from places like Mowe, Ibadan, and Ijebu-Ode, so that they don’t stay on the expressway,” he said.
“This will help reduce the risk of more accidents.”
Community leader Alh. Aminat Shabi also expressed concern, saying she was disappointed that Dangote Group had not yet released a statement about the incident.
“It is upsetting that Dangote has not responded to this tragedy and this is really unfair,” she said.
We expect them to show concern for the community.”
Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom Mourns Lives Lost in Monday’s Tragic Accident
Ekohotblog reports that His Royal Majesty, Alayeluwa Oba (Dr) Shefiu Olatunji Adewale (Bamgbopa Eshinlokun I), the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, has expressed his deep sorrow and sympathy following a tragic accident in Epe on Monday morning, November 11, 2024.
The accident, which occurred at Aiyetoro Bus Stop, claimed several lives and left many others injured.
Oba Adewale shared his grief with the families who lost loved ones in the tragedy, offering them comfort during this difficult time.
“I am truly heartbroken by the loss of our dear ones,” said Oba Adewale.
“This accident has affected us all, and my thoughts and prayers are with the families who are going through this painful experience.
Oba Adewale concluded his message by encouraging the community to remain strong and supportive in this tragedy moment.
“Let us come together in this time of sorrow and support each other as we remember those who have passed,” he said.
“May God grant us all the strength to face this difficult moment.”
Epe Accidents: Osinaike Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Aiyetoro Market Tragedy
Ekohotblog reports that following the tragic accident at Aiyetoro Bus Stop on Monday morning, which took the lives of several people and left others injured, Tutor General/Permanent Secretary Olusegun Olawale Osinaike has shared a heartfelt message of sympathy with the Epe community.
The accident, which happened around 8 a.m. on Monday morning, has deeply saddened the town, leaving families and residents grieving.
Mr. Osinaike began by expressing his deep sorrow and offering his condolences to the families who lost loved ones.
“It is with a heavy heart that I speak to you today. I stand with all the families who have lost their loved ones in this tragic accident,” he said.
“Our entire community is grieving, and I send my deepest sympathies to the affected families, the Chairman of Epe Local Government, and our royal fathers. We are all feeling the weight of this loss.”
He offered comforting words to the families of the victims, reminding them that they are not alone in this sad moment.
“To the families who are suffering through this terrible loss, please know that the whole community is with you. We are praying for you, and we are here to offer our support. We remember those who have passed and hold their memories close to our hearts.”
Mr. Osinaike also showed concern for those injured in the accident, wishing them a quick recovery and offering the community’s support.
“Our thoughts are with those who were injured,” he said. “We pray that they recover quickly, and as a community, we will stand by them during this time.”
He urged the people of Epe to stay united and support each other in this difficult moment.
“This tragedy reminds us how fragile life can be. Now, more than ever, we need to come together as a community. Let’s help one another and be there for those who are hurting.”
Mr. Osinaike ended his message with a call for strength and unity in the face of the tragedy.
“We pray for God’s peace to comfort us during this difficult time,” he said. “May the souls of those we lost rest in peace, and may their memories live on in our hearts.”
EPWA Mourns Victims of Aiyetoro Market Tragedy in Epe
Ekohotblog reports that the Epe Division Professional Women Association (EPWA) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident that took place at Aiyetoro Market, Epe, in the early hours of Monday, November 11, 2024, which claimed the lives and properties of several residents.
In a statement released by the association, EPWA offered their condolences to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Hon. Princess Surah Animashaun, and the families of the victims who were affected by the tragic event.
“We are heartbroken by this tragedy that has shaken our community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families who have lost loved ones.
“We stand with them in their grief,” said Mrs. Opeoluwa Balogun, President of EPWA.
The association prayed for the comfort of the grieving families and a speedy recovery for those who were injured in the incident.
“We ask God Almighty to comfort the families of those who have passed away and grant the injured a quick and full recovery,” added Mrs. Opeoluwa added
Speaking on behalf of the local government, Hon. Princess Surah Animashaun, expressed her gratitude for the support shown by EPWA and other community groups.
“This is a tragic moment for Epe, but we are grateful for the solidarity and prayers from everyone.
“We will ensure that the affected families receive the support they need during this difficult time,” she said.
Hon. Abiodun Tobun Reacts to Tragic Epe Accidents, Demands Action
Hon. Abiodun Tobun, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Epe Constituency I, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic accidents that occurred in Epe on Monday, which led to significant loss of lives and injuries.
The first two accidents involved a Dangote truck overloaded with 900 bags of cement, which crashed into the busy Ayetoro Market, resulting in the deaths of over 40 people and leaving many others injured, EKO HOT BLOG reports.
In the aftermath, another collision between a private car, a Marwa, and an Okada claimed two more lives.
A third accident took place at Manpower Secondary, where a Marwa collided with an Okada, injuring both individuals involved. They were quickly transported to the hospital for treatment.
In response to the devastating events, Hon. Tobun condemned the Dangote truck accident, calling it “intentional killing” due to the truck being overloaded beyond its design capacity.
“This accident could have been prevented,” Hon. Tobun said.
“The truck was supposed to carry a maximum of 600 bags, but it had 900 bags. This was a reckless act, and the company must be held accountable for these deaths.”
The lawmaker further outlined his efforts to prevent future accidents in the area.
“I have contacted the authorities to ensure that the emergency unit in Oke-Osho, Epe, is well-equipped. We need to be better prepared for such emergencies,” he stated.
Hon. Tobun also revealed plans to improve road and market safety in the community. “We are working to enhance safety on our roads and in our markets to prevent such tragedies from happening again,” he added.
Condolences Pour In After Fatal Accidents Claim Several Lives at Ayetoro Market in Epe
More reactions have continued to pour in following the multiple accidents at Ayetoro Market on Monday, which claimed the lives of several people.
EKOT HOT BLOG reports that the tragedy has left the entire town in mourning, with many residents and leaders offering their condolences to the families of the victims.
Reacting, Hon. (Mrs.) Saidat Olayinka Oladunjoye, Federal Commissioner at the National Population Commission, expressed her sadness in a message to the community.
She said, “I am deeply saddened by the tragedies that have struck our community this morning. My heartfelt condolences go out to all those affected by the accidents,” she said. “In times like these, we must come together and support one another. My thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and loved ones who are grieving.”
Hon. Oladunjoye also urged the community to offer strength and comfort to those in need. “Let us unite as a community and support each other in this difficult time,” she added.
On her part, Hon. Ahmed Ayinde Seriki, Commissioner for the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission, also shared his condolences.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened by the terrible accident at Ayetoro Market, Epe. This tragic event has left a great loss in our community, and we share in the grief of the families affected,” he said.
Hon. Seriki prayed for the souls of the deceased, asking for peace and eternal rest. “We pray that the Almighty grants eternal rest and peace to the departed, and may their memories live on in our hearts.”
He also praised the prompt actions of local authorities and the community in responding to the accident. “I commend the Executive Chairman, Epe Local Government, her vice, the security agencies, and the community for their quick response to the situation. Your swift actions have helped in managing the emergency,” he said.
Similarly, Hon. Ogunkelu Sylvester, Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly for Epe Constituency II, also expressed his condolences to the people of Epe Federal Constituency.
“When tragedy strikes, it affects not just the families but the whole community,” he said. He acknowledged the pain the families are going through and offered his prayers. “Words may not heal the grief, but I pray that God gives them comfort and strength to get through this difficult time,” he added.
Hon. Ogunkelu also expressed sympathy for the friends and loved ones of the victims. “I hope they find comfort in the memories they shared with their loved ones,” he said.
In his prayer, Hon. Ogunkelu prayed for the souls of the deceased to rest in peace and for strength for the families to cope with the loss.
Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, also expressed his condolences to the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the fatal accident.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr. Enitan Olukotun, Senator Abiru described the incident as deeply unfortunate and catastrophic, offering prayers for the repose of the deceased.
He expressed his sympathy to the families and friends of the victims, as well as the entire Epe community.
“I am deeply sorry for the loss of the victims. My prayers are with the families and everyone affected by this tragedy. May Allah grant the departed rest and give us all strength during this painful time,” he said.
Epe Leaders Commiserate with Families, Victims of Ayetoro Market Accident
Ekohotblog reports that the Chairmen of Epe Federal Constituency—Hon. Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun (Epe Local Government), Hon. Monsuru Akinloye (Eredo LCDA), have reacted to the tragic accident at Ayetoro Market, which claimed several lives and left many others injured.
Hon. Princess Surah Animashaun, in a statement, expressed deep sadness, saying, “This is a dark and painful time for our community.
“My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones. We mourn with you and will do all we can to support you.
“We are working with medical teams to ensure the injured receive the best care.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may we never experience such a tragedy again.”
Similarly, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye of Eredo LCDA shared his sympathy: “Monday, 11/11/2024, is one of the saddest days in the history of Epe.
“My heart is heavy, and I feel for the families affected by this terrible event.
“I pray that God gives you the strength to bear this loss. We are here to support you through this tough time.
“May the souls of the deceased rest in peace, and may God protect our community from such events in the future.”
Hon. Akogun Wale Anomo of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA also expressed his sorrow:
“This is a tragic day for everyone in Epe.
I send my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“May God give them the strength to bear this pain. We are doing everything we can to help the injured and their families.
“We must all remember to take safety seriously, especially on the roads, to prevent such accidents from happening again.”
Rep. Wale Raji Calls for Stricter Rules on Trucks After Fatal Accident in Epe’s Aiyetoro Market
Rep. Wale Raji, who represents Epe Federal Constituency, has called for stricter rules for heavy-duty trucks in Lagos State.
His comment comes following a tragic accident at Aiyetoro Market in Epe on Monday, November 11, 2024, that killed several people.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the accident involved a cement truck that crashed into the busy market, leaving the community in shock and grief.
The incident has raised concerns about the road safety in the area.
Speaking on Arise TV’s “National Dialogue on Home-Grown Parliamentary System of Government,”
Rep. Raji expressed his sadness over the loss of lives. He said such accidents could have be prevented if there were better checks on trucks and their safety standards.
“This kind of accident, like many others involving trucks, could have been avoided if we paid more attention to truck regulations and safety checks,” Raji said.
“We need to improve how trucks operate on our roads, make sure they are safe, and do regular checks to ensure they are roadworthy.” to avoid incidents like this.
He also urged local traders to avoid selling by the roadside, emphasizing that safer market spaces are being built for them.
“I encourage our people to stop selling on the roadsides, especially now that new markets are being built for them,” he said.
Rep. Raji sent his condolences to the families of those affected by the accident and asked for everyone’s support in making sure similar accidents do not happen again.
Ambode Visits Ibi Alafia, Promises Quick Power Restoration in Epe
Ekohotblog reports that Former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday visited Ibi Alafia, where the IKEDC power facility was recently vandalized, with a move to restore electricity back to Epe.
He met with community leaders, IKEDC officials, and security agencies to discuss how to fix the power issue and protect the power lines along the Shaala-to-Epe route.
During the meeting, community leaders agreed to help protect the IKEDC facility and promised to work with security agencies to stop further vandalism.
Ambode praised their cooperation, saying, “This is not just about fixing power lines, but also about building trust between the community, the government, and the electricity company.
“I’m sure that by working together, we will restore power to Epe and stop this from happening again.”
Local leaders, including Chief Ganiu, said “We are ready to help protect the power facility because electricity is very important for our daily lives and businesses in Epe,” he said.
IKEDC officials assured the people that power would be back soon.
“We are working hard to reconnect Epe to the grid, and with the community’s support, we expect power to be restored within the week,” said an IKEDC representative.
Black Monday in Epe: Fatal Accidents Claim Lives at Ayetoro Market
Epe was thrown into mourning on Monday morning after two separate accidents at Ayetoro Market left many dead and several others injured.
The first accident involved a Dangote truck carrying cement that lost control while coming down Paramount Hill via Ita-Opo.
The truck crashed into a shopping complex in the market, killing several people instantly.
Many others were trapped under the truck. Emergency services quickly arrived to help rescue those trapped.
Just few moments after the Dangote truck accident, a private car coming down from Oke-Shade lost control and hit pedestrians and tricyclist at Ayetoro Market, killing two people instantly.
Eyewitness Mr. Shakiru recalled, “The car came speeding down the hill and crashed into people and tricycle going on their own.
It was a terrible sight. The victims didn’t have a chance.”
Com. Moibi Ibrahim, the President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), and Hon. Moruf Olumuyiwa Odunaare a youth Parliament leader, visited the accident scenes to express their sympathy to the families of the victims.
“This is a sad day for Epe, and our hearts are with the victims and their families,” said Com. Moibi Ibrahim.
“This also should be an eye opener to all traders and residents to stay off the roads and follow traffic rules to prevent such accidents.”
Hon. Moruf Olumuyiwa Odunaare also shared his concerns, “This loss of life is heartbreaking, and we stand with the families in their time of grief.
The Local Government Chairman, Hon. Surah Animashaun, has worked hard to stop traders from blocking the roads, but many still don’t listen. This needs to be addressed to keep everyone safe.”
The Vice Chairman of Epe Local Government, Hon. Owolomonshe, along with other council members, also visited the accident sites to offer condolences to the families.
“This is a tragic day for Epe. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims, and we will do everything we can to help them,” he said.
Mrs. Alhaja Shabi, the Supervisor for the Health Committee, was at the hospital to ensure that the injured victims were treated and attended to well.
She praised the hospital staff for their quick response.
“The hospital staff worked hard to care for the injured, and we are grateful for their efforts,” she said.
“The families of victims whose life were loss have come for there corpse to bury.” She said
Mrs. Shabi also confirmed that the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Surah Animashaun, had covered all medical bills for the injured.
“The Local Government has made sure that all the medical bills are paid, and two files have been opened for both accident scenes to ensure proper care,” she added.
Alhaja Shabi Calls for Dangote Trucks to Stop Passing Through Epe Town After Deadly Accidents
Ekohotblog reports that after the tragic accidents at Ayetoro Market in Epe this morning, Alhaja Shabi Aminat, supervisor for health committee has spoken out about the danger posed by Dangote trucks in the town.
She called for the trucks to be rerouted to a safer road outside the community, instead of passing through the town center where people will be at risk.
Speaking about the incident, Alhaja Shabi expressed her frustration and concern about the frequent accidents involving Dangote trucks in Epe.
“This isn’t the first time Dangote trucks has killed people in our town,” she said.
“These big trucks are dangerous, and they shouldn’t be driving through the open community. Our people are dying because of them.”
She pointed out that there is a safer route at Araga that the trucks should use.
“There is a road at Araga for these big trucks. Why do they keep coming through Epe town where people live and work? They need to stop coming this way,” Alhaja Shabi added.
A relative to one of the victims whose life and properties were lost, Mrs. Oladega Rukayat said, ” Dangote has putting a happy family into problems, Mr brother and his family left home this morning, dropped his children at school and was going to drop his wife when he faced his death, caused by Dangote.”
Alhaja Shabi explained that the trucks are not only dangerous, but they also damage properties and leave the people to suffer for it.
“These trucks are ruining our properties and the electricity that we have been praying to have for months now, Dangote still came to destroy all the cables.
The only thing I thank God for is there was no light, If not it would have been a very terrible situation.
It’s time for the government to act. We can’t keep losing people like this,” she said.
She urged the local government and Lagos State to work with Dangote Group to make sure the trucks use the Araga route instead of coming through the town.
“We need the local government, the state government, and Dangote to fix this problem. Let them take the trucks through Araga. Enough is enough.”
Hon. Owolomonshe, the Vice Chairman of Epe Local Government, who visited the accident scene, promised that the government would take action.
“We understand your concerns, and we will work with the authorities to find a solution. The safety of our people is our top priority,” he assured.
Iyaloja General of Epe Urges Traders to Stop Selling on Roadside After Tragic Accident
Ekohotblog reports that after the tragic accidents at Ayetoro Market, Alhaja Wuraola Olorunnishola, the Iyaloja General of Epe, has called on all market women and men to stop selling on the roadside and move into the safer market spaces.
She said the recent accidents should serve as a wake-up call for everyone.
Speaking to traders, Alhaja Olorunnishola said, “What happened today is a reminder that selling on the roadside is dangerous.
It puts our lives and our customers’ lives at risk. We must move into the market to stay safe.”
She also reminded traders about the new shops built by Hon. Wale Raji for them.
“Hon. Wale Raji has built new shops for us so we can leave the roadside and do our business safely.
I urge everyone to try to get a space for use inside the market, instead of putting our lives in danger,” she said.
Alhaja Olorunnishola also asked the local government to help stop roadside selling.
“We need the local government to do something about it. Only God watches over us, but we must also be careful.
Selling on the road is too dangerous,” she added.
She encouraged traders to understand the importance of this move.
“This accident is a warning for us all. We can’t keep selling on the road and hoping nothing will happen.
We need to protect ourselves by staying in the market,” she emphasized.
Hon. Owolomonshe, the Vice Chairman of Epe Local Government, supported Alhaja Olorunnishola’s call, he also said in his speech that
“We will work together with the market leaders to make sure traders move into the market. It’s for everyone’s safety,” he said.
Traders also agreed with the Iyaloja General. Mrs. Aisat, a food seller, said,
“The roadside is dangerous truly, we all are just hoping God protects us . I will move my stall inside the market to stay safe.”
LASU Epe Campus Students Move Out in Large Numbers After Accommodation Fee Increase
Ekohotblog reports that many students of the Lagos State University (LASU) Epe campus have been forced to leave their hostels after the university raised the accommodation fee.
This has left a lot of students upset and make them search for accomodations outside the campus.
The accommodation fee,that was former ₦15,000, was first increased to ₦150,000.
After students complained, the school reduced the fee to ₦120,000.
Even with the reduction, many students are finding it hard to afford the new price.
A student who spoke about the situation said,
“The school authorities chased out those who couldn’t pay, and gave them a place to store their things temporarily.
They told us we have until Sunday evening to move our belongings out of the school.”
Many students are also unhappy with the new living conditions, saying they are being asked to share small rooms with more people.
“Before, when we were paying ₦15,000, only two of us stay in a room. Now, with the new fee, they want four students to live in a room,” one student said.
The rooms, which are two-bedroom apartments, will now have eight students in each, sharing the same toilet and bathroom.
“It’s not fair. We are now eight in one apartment, and we all have to share toilet and kitchen,” another student explained.
She explained further saying, “we all came from different background and we don’t know who has a sensitive body among us,
Many might have infection that may spread while sharing toilet”
The students are asking the school to think about how this is affecting them.
“We already struggle to pay our school fees. This increase is just too much for many of us,” another student said.
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