Tragedy struck over the weekend on the Katsina-Ala–Zaki Biam Road as a truck laden with cement was involved in a lone accident, leaving seven people dead and several others injured.
The Incident
Eyewitness reports indicate that the truck, carrying approximately 600 bags of cement, was traveling at high speed toward Zaki Biam when it hit a pothole and the driver lost control. The vehicle tumbled, resulting in the immediate death of seven passengers.
“The truck was on top speed. After it hit the pothole, the driver couldn’t regain control. It somersaulted and crashed,” a witness recounted.
“It was the quick response of local residents that helped save the lives of six people who sustained injuries, while two others escaped without a scratch.”
Official Confirmation
Steve Ayodele, Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in the area, confirmed the accident and the casualty figures. He stated that 15 individuals were on board the ill-fated truck. Ayodele also confirmed that the wreckage had been cleared from the highway to restore normal vehicular movement.
Road Safety Concerns
This latest accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety along major routes in Benue State, particularly due to poor road conditions, overloading, and reckless driving. Authorities have urged motorists to adhere strictly to speed limits, ensure vehicle roadworthiness, and avoid overloading, especially with human passengers on freight vehicles not designed to carry them.
Response
Emergency responders, including FRSC personnel and local residents, were praised for their swift action in rescuing survivors and clearing the road. The injured victims are currently receiving medical attention at nearby healthcare facilities. Further investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing.
