A 1970s model wagon car ran into a jubilating crowd welcoming the victory of Kayode Fayemi on Sunday morning, hitting a seven-year-old boy and leaving him ghastly wounded.
Medical personnel were not optimistic about the boy’s high chances of recovery, only urging his family and relatives to be fervent in their prayers.
The driver was identified as a preacher with Living Faith Church (a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel). The man was on his way to Sunday service when the accident occurred about 8:26 a.m.
The victim, Imole Afolabi was rushed to Heirs Hospital in downtown Oye, and medical personnel immediately shut the entrance to prevent overcrowding and any distraction that could come with it while administering emergency treatment.
The boy’s mother, Mrs. Funmilola Afolabi, said they joined residents who trooped out to celebrate Fayemi’s victory at Ilupeju Junction, Oye, shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission declared the All Progressives Congress’ candidate winner of the Saturday election.
Wearing a campaign vest distributed by the APC, Mrs Afolabi, who became instantly downcast said the hospital officials asked her to hold strongly onto her faith.
The pastor, identified only as Festus, said he was not speeding beyond approved limit for the zone before the accident. He also insisted that he held the brakes of his 1970s model Peugeot 504, but regretted that the boy was still seriously injured.
“We are placing all our hope in God,” he said.
Witnesses at the scene said the pastor was not at top speed or reckless prior to the crash.