A tragic incident unfolded as a commercial bus driver, known as Lukman, unexpectedly collapsed at the wheel while transporting University of Ilorin students to the campus. The event, which occurred on a Friday, left passengers in a state of shock.

According to an account shared via a widely circulated WhatsApp message, a passenger who witnessed the distressing scene recounted how they intervened to prevent a potential catastrophe. The witness, engrossed in reading the Qur’an on their phone, was alerted by another passenger repeatedly calling out “Baba”. Upon looking up, they saw the driver struggling for breath, and the bus veering off course. Taking swift action, the witness applied the brakes, assumed control of the vehicle, and safely brought it to a stop. Despite efforts to save him, the driver was pronounced dead upon arrival at the university clinic, all transpiring within a harrowing 30 minutes.

Sulyman Malik, a colleague of the deceased, reflected on the fleeting nature of life, citing an interaction he had with Lukman just a day prior regarding an accident Malik himself had experienced. This sudden loss serves as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictability. Lukman was laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites, leaving behind memories of a vibrant personality whose demise seemed inconceivable even decades into the future.

The University of Ilorin’s Director of Information, Mr. Kunle Akogun, expressed deep regret over the incident, emphasizing the fragile nature of existence and the need to cherish each moment.

This unfortunate event underscores the fleeting essence of life and the imperative to value every precious moment.

END.