Tragedy struck in Yobe State on Tuesday night when a fatal road accident claimed at least 12 lives.

The incident occurred on the Baimari-Geidam road, near Km 20, in Chelluri village, around 10:00 pm. According to Corps Commander Livinus Yilzoom, Sector Commander of the Yobe State Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash involved a stationary Howo truck, registered MAG831ZR, owned by DAN Nene Construction Company, and a Sharon minibus, registered BAU124YF.

The minibus collided with the truck and caught fire, resulting in the tragic death of all 12 passengers, who were burned beyond recognition.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the immediate cause of the crash was the truck’s obstruction on the road, while excessive speed and overload were contributing factors due to the driver of the minibus.

Corps Commander Yilzoom urged motorists to avoid traveling at night, citing poor visibility worsened by the ongoing hazy Harmattan weather.

The FRSC has extended condolences to the victims’ families, with Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressing his sympathy for the tragic loss. This incident highlights the critical need for road safety and responsible driving.