The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that 12 people lost their lives in a multi-vehicle crash along the Yangoji–Abuja highway on Sunday.
According to a statement issued by the FRSC spokesperson, Segun Ogungbemide, the fatal collision took place around 11:45 am in the Gada Biyu axis of the Federal Capital Territory.
Ogungbemide explained that the crash involved four vehicles— a coal-laden articulated truck, a commercial bus, and two commercial cars.
He said preliminary investigations showed the tragic accident resulted from reckless behaviour by the truck driver.
“Further investigation revealed that the truck driver was driving at an excessive speed beyond the prescribed limit for the corridor, lost control and rammed into already parked vehicles, leading to the fatal crash,” the statement reads.
The spokesperson added that 18 people were affected in the crash, noting that five victims died at the scene, while seven others later succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.
Ogungbemide also confirmed that three additional individuals suffered various degrees of injuries, ranging from bruises and cuts to fractures and head trauma, and are currently receiving treatment.
“Five victims died instantly at the scene, while seven others, who were rescued and taken to the hospital, later died from their injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities to 12,” he said.