25 killed in Kaduna road crash

From Sola Ojo, Abuja

The Kaduna State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) last night confirmed that 25 persons were killed in a crash in Saminaka, Lere Local Government area of Kaduna State on Sunday.

The victims, mostly young boys, were said to be traveling to Saminaka to join other Muslims faithful to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Maulud.

The Sector Commander, RS 1, Kaduna, Kabir Y Nadabo, said 25 persons died instantly while 10 others later died in hospitals during treatment.

“The town of Saminaka was filled with travellers mostly to celebrate the Maulud festival, when a J5 Bus with registration number NSL 08 AA carrying 63 people list control and crashed onto a DAF Trailer with registration number DKA 454 XY.

“The incident occurred at LEA Primary School lere. Instantly, 15 people were confirmed dead on the spot while 48 others who sustained various injuries were conveyed to Comprehensive Hospital Saminaka for treatment.

“However, due to the nature of the crash and the injuries sustained, some of the victims were moved to ABU Shika, University of Jos Teaching Hospital and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital respectively for proper and comprehensive medical attention.

“Sadly, at about 18:45 hrs today (16/9/2024), the command received an update that 10 more victims had died due to injuries sustained.  This is truly sad and tragic. The total amount of the deceased has risen to 25 people out of the 63 people involved.

“I want to express the Corps profound condolence to the families of all those who have lost their dear ones in this fatal accident.

“I also want to reiterate FRSC stance and position on overloading of humans or goods and excess speeding. In this case both have contributed to the fatal calamity witnessed.

“These are avoidable, hence our resolve to continously engage motorists on safety ethics and general Road behaviour. FRSC Kaduna is poised to ensure the overall safety of motorists in Kaduna and beyond”, he explained.