A deadly road accident has claimed the lives of at least nine people after a heavy-duty trailer rammed into a commercial bus on a major inter-community route in Gombe State, triggering fresh concerns over speeding and vehicle safety.
Moreover, several passengers were left injured as emergency responders battled to rescue victims trapped in the wreckage, while the impact of the collision forced the smaller vehicle to overturn.
Authorities confirmed that 18 people were involved in the crash. Five sustained varying degrees of injuries, while four others escaped without physical harm.
Confirming the incident, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Gombe State disclosed that the injured were immediately taken to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment.
The remains of those who died were deposited at the same hospital’s mortuary.
According to the FRSC, the accident occurred on the Kaltungo–Cham Road within Kaluwa community in Kaltungo Local Government Area on Monday morning.
Speaking on the circumstances surrounding the crash, the state FRSC Sector Commander, Samson Kaura, said early findings pointed to excessive speed compounded by mechanical failure.
“Initial assessments indicate that the trailer lost control on the slope due to speed and brake issues, then collided with the bus from behind,” Kaura said.
He explained that the force of the impact caused the Sharon bus to somersault, worsening the casualties recorded at the scene.
Furthermore, the road safety chief warned motorists against reckless driving, particularly on hilly and slippery terrains common across the area.
“Drivers must understand the nature of the roads they ply and maintain speeds they can safely control. Ignoring this reality often leads to avoidable loss of lives,” he added.
Hence, the FRSC renewed its call for motorists to prioritise caution, vehicle maintenance, and speed discipline to reduce the growing incidence of fatal crashes on Nigerian highways.