According to Punch Newspaper, the tragic death of 18-year-old Aliyah, a candidate sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, has thrown a family into deep sorrow. Aliyah lost her life in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, after being hit by a truck, a tragedy that has left many in shock. Her father, Saheed, a film director, has opened up about the painful ordeal that followed the heartbreaking incident. What was meant to be a hopeful moment for the family turned into one of grief and unbearable pain.
Aliyah was on her way to the examination venue when the accident happened. The truck hit her, causing fatal injuries that ended her young life abruptly. News of the accident spread quickly around the area, with residents expressing concern over the constant danger posed by reckless drivers, especially in student-populated areas. The incident sparked widespread sadness among those who knew her as a bright and focused young girl preparing to complete her secondary education.
Her father, who had not accompanied her that morning, was called to the hospital following the incident. Upon arrival, he met with the doctor on duty who asked if he had come with anyone. When he replied that he was alone, the doctor directed him to check the mortuary. It was there, in the cold silence of the mortuary, that he identified his daughter’s lifeless body. The shock and sorrow of that moment have continued to haunt him, as he recalls seeing his daughter who had left home in the morning full of life now lying still and unresponsive.
The loss of Aliyah has not only affected her family but also the larger community where she lived. Friends, neighbours, and classmates have been struggling to come to terms with the sad reality. Many remember her as a humble and brilliant student who was always determined to succeed. The fact that she died while trying to take an important step toward her future has only added to the pain. Parents in the area have since expressed growing concerns about the safety of their children, particularly during school runs and examination periods.
This incident has again drawn attention to the dangers posed by careless driving in busy towns like Ijebu Ode. Truck drivers and other commercial vehicle operators often move without regard for traffic rules, putting the lives of pedestrians, especially students, at risk. People in the community have called for stronger traffic enforcement around school zones and examination centres. Many believe that the government must do more to ensure that such devastating events do not keep repeating themselves in towns across the state.
He said: So, the doctor asked if I came with anyone, and I said no. So, he said I should go and check one of the accident victims in the mortuary, and I found out that it was my darling daughter.
