A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of several health workers in Kwara State, casting a shadow over this year’s Workers’ Day celebrations.
The incident occurred on Friday along the Oke-Onigbin–Omu Aran highway as members of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) were returning from the 2026 May Day rally held at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin.
According to eyewitness accounts, the crash happened in the evening after one of the vehicles conveying the workers suffered a tyre burst. The driver reportedly lost control, resulting in a devastating collision. While the exact number of casualties is yet to be confirmed, multiple fatalities have been reported.
The victims were said to be members of MHWUN from Ekiti Local Government Area, who had participated in the annual Workers’ Day celebration before embarking on their journey home.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Council, Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, described the loss as a painful blow not only to the council but also to the health sector and the state at large.
“Our hearts are heavy. These were dedicated professionals who left their homes to celebrate the dignity of labour but never returned,” he said. “We have lost individuals who served their communities with compassion and commitment.”
He added that the tragedy has turned what should have been a moment of unity and celebration into a period of mourning.
Survivors of the crash are currently receiving medical treatment at nearby hospitals, with authorities expressing hope for their quick recovery.
In honour of the deceased, the Kwara State chapter of MHWUN has declared a three-day mourning period and directed all members to fly the union’s flag at half-mast.
The local government has also pledged to collaborate with the Kwara State Government and relevant agencies to support the families of the victims and cover medical expenses for the injured.
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in the state has yet to release an official statement or confirm the number of casualties.
This heartbreaking incident has left the labour community and residents of the state in deep mourning, as families grieve the loss of loved ones who died in the line of service to humanity.