Twenty people have died and five others sustained injuries in a multiple-vehicle crash along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route in Plateau State, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed.

The fatal crash occurred at about 3:32 p.m. on Friday, October 2, shortly after Sopp Water Falls, according to the FRSC.

The Corps said 25 people were involved in the crash, comprising 23 males and two females. Twenty male victims lost their lives, while five people — three males and two females — sustained injuries.

Four vehicles involved

According to the FRSC, four vehicles were involved in the collision: a Howo Sino truck, a Toyota Corolla, a Toyota Bummer bus operated by Yankari Express and a motorcycle whose registration details were unavailable.

The FRSC said preliminary findings indicated brake failure and subsequent loss of control as the likely causes of the crash. However, the agency has ordered a detailed investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Injured victims taken to hospitals

The five injured victims were evacuated to Ryom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital for medical treatment, while the bodies of those who died were deposited at the mortuary of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

FRSC rescue personnel also cleared the obstruction caused by the crash and restored traffic along the affected section of the highway.

FRSC urges motorists to exercise caution

FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressed sadness over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families and associates of the victims.

He directed the crash investigation team to establish what led to the incident, particularly the reported brake failure and loss of control.

The FRSC also urged motorists, particularly commercial and heavy-duty vehicle operators, to pay attention to vehicle roadworthiness, proper maintenance, speed management and responsible driving.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers motorists face on major highways and the importance of maintaining vehicles before embarking on long-distance journeys.