Abuja, Nigeria – A devastating accident on Wednesday evening claimed the lives of six people and left at least 14 vehicles burned following the explosion of a truck near Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command confirmed the incident, which sent shockwaves through the local community.
According to the FCT Emergency Management Department, the incident occurred at approximately 7:14 pm when the truck lost control and crashed into multiple vehicles, igniting a massive fire.
However, a statement from the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, issued later on Wednesday night, clarified that the accident took place at 6:58 pm and involved a Dangote trailer loaded with cement.
The truck, reportedly approaching Nyanya Bridge from AYA, lost control and rammed into stationary vehicles caught in traffic.
“The impact engulfed 14 vehicles, leading to a raging inferno. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, battling thick smoke and intense heat to rescue those trapped,” Adeh stated.
Authorities reported that six victims were pulled from the wreckage and transported to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead by medical personnel.
The total number of injured persons remains uncertain, but emergency response teams worked tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the disaster.
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene, with flames consuming vehicles and panic-stricken motorists and bystanders scrambling for safety.
“I was about five cars behind when I saw the trailer lose control,” said Aliyu Yusuf, a commercial driver who narrowly escaped the explosion. “It was like a bomb went off. The fire spread so quickly, and people were screaming everywhere.”
Emergency responders, including firefighters, police, and medical personnel, swiftly arrived at the scene to contain the fire and assist victims. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen billowing into the sky, while traffic in the area came to a standstill.
Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that brake failure may have been a contributing factor, though authorities have yet to confirm this.
The FCT Police Command expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and urged motorists to exercise caution while driving.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to those who lost loved ones in this tragic incident. We also advise drivers, especially those handling heavy-duty vehicles, to ensure that their vehicles are in proper working condition before hitting the road,” the statement read.
This accident underscores the recurring issue of road safety in Nigeria, particularly along major highways where large commercial trucks frequently operate.
Experts have long called for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and improved road infrastructure to mitigate such tragedies.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public that necessary measures will be taken to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
Meanwhile, the wreckage has been cleared, and traffic flow along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway has resumed, though the memories of Wednesday’s inferno remain fresh in the minds of witnesses and affected families.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
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