By IBIRONKE ARIYO

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of 20 people in a multiple road traffic crash along the Hawan Kibo-Jos route in Plateau.

The Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Mr Osondu Ohaeri, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.

Ohaeri said the crash occurred at about 3:32 p.m. after Sopp Water Falls, with brake failure and loss of control identified as likely causes.

He said 25 people were involved in the crash, comprising 23 males and two females.

According to him, five people, comprising three males and two females, sustained injuries, while 20 males died in the crash.

“Four vehicles were involved in the crash, including a Howo Sino truck with registration number AGL 525 YN.

“Others were a Toyota Corolla with registration number AB 129 M and a Toyota Bummer bus operated by Yankari Express.

“The fourth vehicle was a motorcycle whose registration particulars were not available.

“The injured victims were evacuated to Ryom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital, while the deceased were deposited at JUTH Mortuary.

“FRSC rescue personnel also cleared the obstruction caused by the crash and restored the affected highway section to traffic,” he said.

Reacting to the incident, FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, expressed sadness over the loss of lives.

He extended his condolences to the families, friends and associates of the deceased and prayed for the repose of their souls.

Mohammed also wished the injured victims a speedy recovery and directed the crash investigation team to conduct a thorough investigation.

He said the investigation should establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the reported brake failure and loss of control.

The Corps Marshal urged motorists, especially commercial and heavy-duty vehicle operators, to prioritise roadworthiness, maintenance, speed management and responsible driving.

Mohammed further admonished drivers to exercise greater caution, stressing that the loss of 20 lives in one crash was not merely a statistic.

“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,” he said.

Mohammed therefore urged all road users to take personal responsibility for safety, stressing that no journey was so urgent that it should end in death. (NAN)

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