The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the loss of 18 lives in an accident that occurred on the Abuja-Kaduna Road on Sunday morning.
The Corps Marshal, Dauda Biu, expressed deep concern over the incident and has taken immediate action to address the underlying issues contributing to such accidents.
News About Nigeria gathered that 18 people were killed and 27 persons sustained varying degrees of injuries in the crash, which involved a DAF trailer with registration number KUJ 430XC that was loaded with goods and people.
The injured were taken to the closest hospital for treatment after the trailer lost control and overturned, ending in a ditch near Audu Jhangon village. The accident occurred at around 05:20 a.m.
According to the statement signed by FRSC spokesperson, Bisi Kazeem, preliminary investigations into this incident and others revealed that fatal accidents usually involve trailers transporting both humans and animals, while undertaking night journeys.
Also, the FRSC, under the directive of Biu, has ordered the establishment of a joint task force comprising the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Army, Vehicle Inspection Office, and state governments.
This task force is mandated to conduct special patrol operations to apprehend trailers and trucks carrying humans and animals.
Additionally, a mobile court will also be established to prosecute traffic violators immediately.
“The Corps Marshal has directed sector commanders to immediately set up the joint task force that will impound and prosecute trailers and trucks carrying humans and animals.
“The Corps Marshal also directed that a mobile court should be set up for immediate prosecution of traffic offenders upon the immediate commencement of this operation,” the statement read.
Biu described the tragedy as preventable and expressed disappointment at the careless attitude of drivers.
The FRSC is determined to address the root causes of such accidents, enhance road safety measures, and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
