Several health workers lost their lives on Friday in a fatal road accident along the Oke-Onigbin-OmuAran highway while returning from the 2026 Workers’ Day rally in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara state.
The victims, who were members of the Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) in Ekiti Local Government Area, were reportedly heading home after participating in the annual May Day celebration held at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin when the tragic crash occurred.
Although the casualty figure could not be ascertained, eyewitnesses said the accident occurred in the evening after one of the vehicles conveying the union members suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control and leading to a devastating crash.
In his reaction, the Chairman of Ekiti Local Government Council, Awelewa Olawale Gabriel, described the development as a painful blow to the council, the health sector, and the state as a whole.
“Our hearts are heavy. These were dedicated professionals who left their homes to celebrate the dignity of labour, only to meet this unfortunate fate on their way back.
“We have lost patriots who served our communities with compassion and commitment,” he lamented.
He said the tragic incident has cast a dark shadow over what should have been a moment of unity and celebration for Nigerian workers, noting that the victims died in active service to humanity.
Read Also:Workers’ Day: How Nigerian workers struggle to survive on N70,000 minimum wage amid rising costs
The chairman extended condolences to the bereaved families and the entire MHWUN community, praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and strength for those left behind.
“The entire Ekiti Local Government Council stands with the MHWUN family at this difficult moment. We pray God Almighty to heal the injured, comfort the bereaved, and grant the departed eternal rest,” he added.
Some of the union members who survived the crash are currently receiving treatment in hospitals for injuries sustained in the accident, while the council boss expressed hope for their speedy recovery.
Although official casualty figures were yet to be confirmed as of press time, the incident has thrown the local government and labour community into mourning.
In response to the tragedy, the Kwara State chapter of MHWUN declared a three-day mourning period, directing members across the state to fly the union’s flag at half-mast in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The council chairman also assured that the local government would work with the Kwara State Government and relevant agencies to provide support for affected families and assist with the medical expenses of the injured.
