Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has officially confirmed that a fatal road accident along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway on Friday resulted in the death of nine individuals, with seven others sustaining varying degrees of injury.
The tragic incident occurred when a Toyota Hummer bus operated by Borno Express Transport Company collided with a commercial trailer, leading to devastating consequences.
Usman Muhammad, the Borno State Sector Commander of the FRSC, disclosed the details of the crash in a statement issued in Maiduguri.
According to him, the accident claimed the lives of eight victims at the scene, while an additional victim succumbed to injuries after being rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri.
The deceased included five adult males, one woman, two young boys, and a girl, highlighting the tragic loss of lives across different age groups.
Meanwhile, the seven injured survivors are currently receiving medical treatment at the same hospital, with hopes for their full recovery.
Sector Commander Muhammad extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. However, preliminary assessments suggest that factors such as speeding, reckless driving, or mechanical failure may have contributed to the collision, though official findings will provide clarity.
In light of the incident, the FRSC reiterated its call for motorists to exercise caution, adhere to traffic regulations, and prioritize safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future. Muhammad emphasized the importance of defensive driving, proper vehicle maintenance, and avoiding overloading or speeding, particularly on high-risk routes like the Maiduguri–Damaturu road.
This tragic event underscores the persistent challenges of road safety in Nigeria, where accidents caused by human error, poor road conditions, and non-compliance with traffic laws remain a major concern. The FRSC continues to advocate for stricter enforcement of road safety policies and public awareness campaigns to reduce fatalities on highways.
As the investigation progresses, authorities urge travelers to remain vigilant and report any reckless driving or hazardous road conditions to the FRSC for prompt intervention. The victims of this crash serve as a somber reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety measures nationwide.