At least 10 persons have been confirmed dead following a fatal road crash along the Jos–Bauchi Road in Plateau State. The tragic accident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 23, around 12:12 a.m., and involved four vehicles—two trailers and two Ford Galaxy minibuses.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the collision was severe, leaving several victims trapped at the scene. Ten individuals were reported to have died instantly, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

The injured victims were rescued and rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.

Accident Confirmation

Peter Longsan, the Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau State, confirmed the incident, noting that all those who died were adult males.

“Ten adult men lost their lives in the crash,” Longsan confirmed.

In an official statement, the FRSC stated that the crash occurred shortly after a military checkpoint on the outskirts of Jos, the capital of Plateau State.

“The crash occurred after the military checkpoint along the Jos–Bauchi Road,” the statement added.

According to the FRSC, 19 people were involved in the accident—17 males and 2 females. Ten adult men died on the spot, while the injured victims were taken to General Hospital Miango, Jos University Teaching Hospital, and Plateau State Specialist Hospital for medical attention.

The FRSC also disclosed that eight corpses were deposited at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital and Bingham University Teaching Hospital, while two of the bodies were claimed by officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers for burial.

Investigation and Causes

The rescue operation was a joint effort by personnel from the FRSC, Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Military, and members of the local community. While investigations are still ongoing, preliminary findings suggest that speeding and reckless driving were major factors in the crash.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that speed and reckless driving, which led to loss of control, were the major contributory factors,” the FRSC stated.

Corps Commander Olajide Mogaji, Sector Commander of the FRSC, expressed concern over the incident and thanked the public for their quick response in alerting security agencies.

Call for Caution

Mogaji urged motorists to avoid night journeys, excessive speeding, and other dangerous driving practices. He also warned drivers against driving under the influence, when sick, or when fatigued, as these are major causes of fatalities in road traffic crashes.

The sector commander also expressed deep concern that the crash occurred just 12 days after a similar incident, where eight students from the University of Jos were killed in a road accident.

“Members of the public are advised to take personal safety seriously, adhere strictly to traffic regulations, and report emergencies promptly,” Mogaji said.

He also reminded the public to contact the FRSC through its toll-free emergency number 122 to report crashes and other road emergencies.