Residents and commuters in Ondo City experienced a tense moment on Monday morning after a heavily loaded 18-seater commercial bus reportedly suffered brake failure and lost control during the early rush hour.

The incident occurred a few minutes past 8 a.m. at Lisaluwa Junction, where the bus eventually crashed, causing a major traffic gridlock that lasted for more than an hour.

Eyewitnesses said the driver was seen gripping the steering wheel firmly while struggling to control the vehicle as it sped through the busy road. Onlookers noted that the driver appeared determined to prevent the bus from crashing into students who had just alighted from a shuttle bus nearby.

According to witnesses, the bus was heavily loaded, making it difficult for the driver to stop the vehicle after the brake failure. In an attempt to avoid hitting pedestrians and other road users, the driver reportedly swerved from the left side of the road, crossed the tarmac, and maneuvered the bus until it finally came to a halt.

A passenger in the bus explained that the journey began from Temidire Community and was heading toward Sabo Market. The vehicle was transporting kegs of palm oil, kolanuts, and empty bottles.

According to the passenger, the driver first noticed the brake failure around Akinjagunla Junction before the situation escalated. The bus eventually came to a halt at Lisaluwa Junction after colliding with two vehicles and a bicycle.

Spectators recounted how passengers inside the bus were shouting and banging on the doors in panic. Despite the commotion, the driver remained focused on maneuvering the vehicle in order to avoid hitting pedestrians.

The incident resulted in a traffic gridlock that lasted for more than an hour before officers of the Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps intervened to restore order and ease the congestion.

An eyewitness described the driver as experienced, while several others praised his composure and courage in handling the emergency despite the chaos inside the vehicle.

Although no lives were lost in the incident, much goods and properties were damaged, and a few passengers sustained minor injuries.