18 Dead, including children in Jigawa Road Crash

No fewer than 18 persons, including children, have been confirmed dead following a deadly road traffic accident on the Dutse–Kwanar Babaldu highway in Jigawa State.

The accident, which involved three vehicles, reportedly happened after a Volkswagen vehicle conveying passengers experienced a tyre burst.

The tyre failure caused the driver to lose control and crash into another vehicle approaching from the opposite direction. Shortly after, a truck ploughed into the two vehicles, crushing them on impact.

Confirming the incident, the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Umar Matazu, said the crash occurred unexpectedly, leaving victims with little or no chance of survival.

“A fatal accident occurred from Dutse to Kwanar Babaldu where three vehicles were involved,” Matazu stated.

“A Volkswagen carrying passengers had its tyre burst and lost control, colliding with another vehicle coming from the opposite direction. Unfortunately, a truck ran into the two vehicles and crushed them.”

He added that early findings pointed to a high number of casualties.

“So far, 18 people are confirmed dead. The victims include male and female adults as well as children,” he said.

Emergency responders and security agencies were mobilised to the scene to rescue survivors and clear the highway for traffic flow. Those injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were evacuated.

The Sector Commander advised motorists to ensure their vehicles are in good condition before travelling and to comply with speed regulations to avoid preventable accidents.

“Drivers must regularly check their tyres and other vital parts of their vehicles. Many of these accidents can be prevented with proper maintenance and caution,” Matazu advised.

The tragedy occurred just days after another fatal road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway involving former World Champion, Anthony Joshua.

That accident sadly claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close friends and trusted trainers, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz”.

While the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said it is awaiting the outcome of a comprehensive technical investigation into the crash, preliminary indications suggest excessive speed played a major role.

What measures do you think should be implemented to reduce road accidents in Nigeria? Share your thoughts in the comment section.