A tragic accident occurred on Friday evening at Hawan Kibo, a hilly stretch in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. At least 20 people were confirmed dead in the multiple-vehicle crash, which involved a truck that lost control while descending the steep bend. The incident, which happened around 5:00 p.m., caused widespread confusion as residents, travelers, and emergency responders rushed to rescue those trapped in the wreckage.
According to eyewitnesses, the truck crashed into other vehicles, causing a trail of destruction. The Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau State, Corps Commander Adelaja Ogungbemi, confirmed the incident and the death toll. He stated that rescue personnel were immediately deployed to the scene to evacuate the injured and recover the bodies of the deceased.
Ogungbemi attributed the accident to brake failure, warning motorists against neglecting routine maintenance of their vehicles. He disclosed that 20 people lost their lives in the accident, including 18 occupants of a commercial bus and two persons in the truck involved in the collision. The FRSC commander emphasized the importance of checking vehicles before embarking on trips and exercising caution, especially when navigating bends and steep descents.
An eyewitness described the incident, stating that the vehicle appeared to have lost control while descending the hill before plowing into other road users. The witness recounted the terrifying scene, with people shouting for help and many victims trapped. Another resident described the aftermath as heart-rending, noting that rescue efforts were initially hampered by the large crowd that gathered at the scene.
The FRSC said injured victims were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while efforts continued late into the evening to clear the road and complete rescue operations. The latest tragedy has renewed concerns over road safety along the Hawan Kibo corridor, a route that has witnessed several fatal crashes over the years due to its difficult terrain and frequent incidents of mechanical failure.
Authorities urged transport operators and motorists to ensure that critical vehicle components, particularly braking systems, are in good condition before embarking on journeys. The incident has highlighted the need for stricter vehicle maintenance and road safety regulations. The Plateau State government and road safety authorities have been urged to take measures to prevent such accidents in the future.
The investigation into the accident is ongoing, with the FRSC and other authorities working to determine the causes and identify potential solutions to prevent similar incidents. The community is in shock, and the incident has sparked a renewed debate on road safety and vehicle maintenance in Nigeria.
Key points
- The accident was attributed to brake failure.
- 20 people were confirmed dead in the multiple-vehicle crash.
- Authorities have urged motorists to ensure routine maintenance of their vehicles.
