The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says 20 people were killed in a multiple road crash along the Hawan Kibo-Jos route in Plateau State.
The crash occurred at about 3:32 p.m. after Sopp Water Falls, according to the Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
Ohaeri said 25 people were involved in the crash, including 23 males and two females. Five people — three males and two females — were injured, while 20 males died.
Four vehicles were involved in the crash: a Howo Sino truck with registration number AGL 525 YN, a Toyota Corolla with registration number AB 129 M, a Toyota Bummer bus operated by Yankari Express, and a motorcycle whose registration details were unavailable.
The FRSC identified brake failure and loss of control as the likely causes of the crash, pending a full investigation.
The injured victims were taken to Ryom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited at the mortuary of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).
FRSC rescue personnel also cleared the wreckage and obstruction from the road and restored traffic along the affected section of the highway.
The FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, expressed condolences to the families and associates of those who died and wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.
Mohammed directed the Corps’ crash investigation team to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, particularly the reported brake failure and loss of control.
He also urged motorists, especially commercial and heavy-duty vehicle drivers, to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, maintain safe speeds and observe responsible driving practices.
“The loss of 20 lives in a single crash represents 20 families suddenly plunged into grief. Behind every number is a name, a home, a family and a future,” Mohammed said.
He urged road users to take responsibility for their safety, stressing that no journey should end in the loss of life.
