Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
A devastating road accident has resulted in the death of a driver, leaving 13 students from Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), with severe injuries. The victims were returning from Ilorin, Kwara State, when their vehicle crashed near Yauri in Kebbi State, leading to immediate fatalities and critical injuries.
The collision occurred under circumstances yet to be fully determined, though preliminary reports suggest a loss of vehicle control. The impact was fatal for the driver, who died on the spot, while all 13 students aboard sustained injuries of varying severity.
Medical evaluations revealed that eight of the students suffered bone fractures, requiring urgent orthopedic care. The remaining five are undergoing treatment for other trauma-related injuries. All victims have been admitted to the UDUS Teaching Hospital in Sokoto, where medical teams are working to stabilize their conditions.
In swift response, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq approved the immediate release of ₦5.25 million to cover critical medical expenses for the affected students, all of whom hail from Kwara State. The funds are earmarked for diagnostic tests, scans, surgeries, and other emergency procedures as outlined by the hospital.
Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe, the Governor’s Special Assistant on Student Affairs, confirmed the financial support, stating: “His Excellency has directed that no expense be spared in ensuring these students receive the best possible care. The released funds will address immediate medical needs, including specialized treatments.”
The tragic incident has reignited concerns over road safety along the Ilorin-Sokoto corridor, with students and transport unions demanding better highway maintenance and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the crash, with findings likely to influence future safety measures.
As the injured students recuperate, the university community and families mourn the loss of the driver while urging stricter measures to prevent similar tragedies.