In an extraordinary display of leadership and compassion, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State personally intervened to rescue victims of a ghastly accident along the Benin–Auchi Road after the bypass on Saturday.
The governor, who was traveling with his entourage to Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area, encountered a heavy traffic gridlock and immediately stepped down from his vehicle to investigate.
At the scene, he found several victims in critical condition, many bleeding profusely, while onlookers stood by recording videos instead of offering assistance. Without hesitation, Governor Okpebholo ordered two of his security Hilux vehicles to be converted into emergency ambulances.
He supervised as injured passengers—among them a woman with severe wounds—were lifted carefully into the vehicles and transported to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the accident occurred when the driver of a white Toyota Venza, with registration number ABUJA GWA 50 AW, drove against traffic, colliding with three commercial minibuses filled with passengers. The crash left dozens injured and caused a major traffic jam.
The governor remained at the scene until he was certain that all victims had been conveyed to medical care under the escort of another security vehicle before continuing his journey.
“Before the governor arrived, people were only taking pictures and videos. But he came, took charge, and ensured the victims were rescued. This is the kind of leader we need; one who leads with compassion and action,” an eyewitness remarked.
Governor Okpebholo’s intervention has since drawn praise across Edo State, with many hailing his swift action as a shining example of servant leadership.
