Question: You are a school correspondent. Write a report for publication in a national newspaper on a road accident you witnessed.
FATAL ACCIDENT CLAIMS FOUR LIVES ON THE LAGOS–IBADAN EXPRESSWAY
By Chika Okoro, School Correspondent
Introduction
A fatal accident occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Tuesday, 14th February 2023, at about 4:30 p.m., claiming four lives and leaving several others injured. The accident, which involved a commercial bus and a petrol tanker, caused heavy traffic congestion for hours.
How the Accident Happened
According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred when a commercial bus, heading towards Ibadan, tried to overtake another vehicle at high speed. Unfortunately, the driver lost control and rammed into an oncoming petrol tanker. The impact was so severe that the bus was badly damaged, and passengers were trapped inside.
Casualties Recorded
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed that four passengers died instantly, while eight others sustained serious injuries. The injured victims were rushed to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for treatment. The driver of the bus was among those who lost their lives. Fortunately, the tanker driver escaped with minor injuries.
Rescue Operations
FRSC officers, assisted by good Samaritans, quickly arrived at the scene to rescue trapped passengers. The police also arrived to control the crowd and prevent hoodlums from looting goods. Fire service personnel were present to avert a possible fire outbreak since petrol was leaking from the tanker.
Reactions
The Sector Commander of the FRSC, in his statement, blamed the accident on reckless driving and overspeeding. He advised motorists to always obey traffic rules, avoid dangerous overtaking, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy.
Some witnesses at the scene expressed sadness over the high rate of accidents on Nigerian roads. They called on government agencies to intensify road safety campaigns and enforce speed limits.
Conclusion
The tragic accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of overspeeding and reckless driving. It is hoped that stricter enforcement of traffic rules and greater public awareness will reduce such unfortunate incidents in the future.
Examiners’ Expectations
WAEC examiners expect candidates to:
- Use a catchy newspaper headline.
- Include a by-line (e.g., By Chika Okoro, School Correspondent).
- Answer the 5Ws and H (Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How).
- Present facts in chronological order.
- Maintain a formal, factual, and concise tone.
- Ensure adequate length (minimum 450 words).
Tips for Students
- For newspaper reports, always add a headline and by-line.
- Begin with a summary lead (state the most important facts first).
- Provide details in order — what happened, casualties, rescue, reactions.
- Avoid adding personal emotions or casual remarks.
- End with a lesson or caution for the public.