Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has expressed deep condolences to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), as well as the government and people of Adamawa State, following a tragic accident that claimed 19 lives in the Hawan Kibo community, Riyom Local Government Area.
News About Nigeria reports that among the victims were five NAF personnel.
According to reports, the crash occurred on Monday night when an 18-seater bus travelling from Adamawa to Abuja lost control and collided with a stationary trailer due to brake failure.
The bus crashed at a checkpoint in the community, resulting in the deaths of all passengers.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Gyang Bere, the governor’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mutfwang described the accident as a devastating loss.
He offered heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, the Chief of the Air Staff, and the Governor of Adamawa State.
The governor also commended the quick response from the Special Task Force, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and local volunteers who attempted to rescue the passengers despite the tragic outcome.
“The incident is a profound tragedy, and the governor expressed his sincere sympathy to the bereaved families, the Governor of Adamawa State, the Chief of the Air Staff, and all those affected by the painful event. The governor prayed that such a heart-wrenching occurrence would not be repeated.
“Governor Mutfwang also commended the prompt and courageous response of the Special Task Force (STF), Federal Road Safety Corps, and local volunteers who made concerted efforts to rescue the passengers despite the tragic outcome.
“The accident, which took place on Monday, involved an 18-seater bus that, due to brake failure, collided with a stationary trailer undergoing roadside repairs,” the statement added.
The Nigerian Air Force also confirmed the loss of its personnel in a separate statement issued by Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa.
According to Akinboyewa, the force has initiated support measures for the families of the deceased and urged the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
Governor Mutfwang prayed for the prevention of such tragedies in the future and stressed the importance of road safety.
