A quiet Monday evening in Epe turned tragic when a truck conveying sharp sand crashed into a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) along Hospital Road, leaving multiple worshippers dead and several others injured.
Epe Insights reports that the accident occurred around 7:45pm during an ongoing church service, reportedly after the truck suffered brake failure while descending Hospital Road Hill toward the roundabout.
Eyewitnesses said the driver struggled to control the vehicle, which veered off the road and struck the church structure, causing panic and structural damage.
Initial reports indicate that seven worshippers died instantly, while three others were feared trapped beneath the truck as rescue efforts continued late into the night.
An eyewitness described the incident, saying, “Everything happened so fast. One minute people were praying, the next minute there was a loud crash and people were screaming for help.”
Another resident who helped with rescue efforts added, “It was heartbreaking seeing people trapped while others were crying and calling names.”
Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Nigeria Army, Epe Fire Service, and other security agencies, were immediately mobilized to the scene.
Rescue operations focused on freeing trapped victims, clearing debris, and securing the area to prevent further casualties.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area as investigations continue and safety assessments are conducted.
The incident has sparked widespread grief in Epe, with calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations, especially for heavy-duty vehicles operating in residential and public areas.
