No fewer than 18 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating multiple-vehicle accident along the Dutse–Kwanar Babaldu highway in Jigawa State on Tuesday.
The fatal crash involved three vehicles and reportedly occurred after a Volkswagen bus conveying passengers suffered a tyre burst, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle collided head-on with another car approaching from the opposite direction. Moments later, a truck rammed into the two vehicles, crushing them on impact and worsening the tragedy.
Confirming the incident, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Jigawa State, Umar Matazu, said the accident happened suddenly, leaving victims with little or no chance of survival.
“A fatal crash occurred on the Dutse to Kwanar Babaldu route involving three vehicles,” Matazu said.
“A Volkswagen vehicle carrying passengers experienced a tyre burst, lost control, and collided with another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. Unfortunately, a truck then ran into both vehicles and crushed them.”
He disclosed that preliminary assessments revealed heavy casualties.
“So far, 18 people have been confirmed dead. The victims include adult males and females, as well as children,” the FRSC commander added.
Emergency responders, including FRSC officials and other security agencies, were swiftly deployed to the scene to rescue survivors and restore traffic flow. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were evacuated.
Matazu used the occasion to caution motorists against negligence, urging them to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before embarking on any journey.
“Drivers must regularly inspect their tyres and other critical components of their vehicles. Most road accidents are preventable with proper maintenance, adherence to speed limits, and caution,” he advised.
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