AT least 10 people have lost their lives in a multiple-vehicle accident along the Jos–Bauchi Road in Plateau State.
The crash, which occurred around 12:12 a.m. on Tuesday, involved four vehicles—two trailers and two Ford Galaxy minibuses. Eyewitnesses said the victims died instantly, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau State, Peter Longsan, said all those who died were adult males. According to the FRSC, 19 people were involved in the crash, comprising 17 men and two women.
In a statement, the FRSC explained that eight of the victims’ bodies were deposited at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital and Bingham University Teaching Hospital morgues, while two were released to officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers for burial. The injured were taken to the General Hospital in Miango, Jos University Teaching Hospital, and the Plateau State Specialist Hospital for medical care.
The rescue operation was carried out jointly by the FRSC, the Nigerian Police, the military, and local residents. Preliminary investigations, according to the FRSC, point to excessive speed and reckless driving, which caused loss of control, as major factors behind the crash.
The Sector Commander, Corps Commander Olajide Mogaji, expressed sadness over the incident, noting that it occurred barely 12 days after eight University of Jos students were killed in a similar accident. He urged motorists to avoid night travel, speeding, driving under the influence, and driving while sick or fatigued.
Tuesday’s crash marks the second major road accident in Plateau State within two weeks, heightening concerns over road safety during the festive season.