A devastating road accident on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway on Thursday has claimed the lives of 21 travelers, leaving many in shock and grief.
The tragic incident, which involved a trailer truck and a passenger Hummer bus, occurred near a route diversion on the busy highway. The bus was reportedly en route to Kano and Batsari town in Katsina State.
According to eyewitness accounts, the accident happened as both vehicles approached a section where all motorists were forced to drive on a single lane due to ongoing construction.
A witness revealed that the driver of the articulated vehicle fled the scene, abandoning both his truck and a container truck that further blocked the highway.
“It was a chaotic scene,” said one of the witnesses.
“The accident happened so quickly, and before we knew it, the Hummer bus was completely wrecked.”
An official from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), who spoke anonymously, confirmed the grim details.
“Only three passengers survived and were rushed to Umaru Musa Memorial Hospital in Sabon-Wuse for urgent medical attention. Sadly, the other 21 victims lost their lives, and their bodies have been deposited in the hospital morgue.”
The FRSC and police authorities have not yet officially confirmed the details of the accident.
However, Idris Ibrahim, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the Tafa Division in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, is said to be preparing a report on the tragic incident.
Motorists have been stranded for hours due to the road blockage caused by the accident, leading to significant traffic buildup.
Many are calling for improved road safety measures to prevent future tragedies on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway, which has been notorious for both accidents and security threats.
“This is a wake-up call for all of us to be more cautious on the road,” urged a motorist who witnessed the accident.
“We need patience and careful driving, especially in areas where the road conditions are less than ideal.”
Authorities have advised motorists to remain patient as efforts are underway to clear the wreckage and restore traffic flow.
Meanwhile, safety advocates are pushing for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and better management of diversions and traffic flow on the expressway to prevent future incidents.