By Sarah NEGEDU
Authorities say six persons lost their lives in the ghastly motor accident that occurred at the Karu bridge along the Kugbo and Nyanya stretch of the Abuja/Keffi express road.
The FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, reported that the multiple accident occurred around 7pm Wednesday night, when the driver of a Compressed Natural Gas, CNG, truck lost control on the bridge and ran into other motorists, leading to an explosion.
The FCT Police Command, in a separate statement, said a total of 14 vehicles were engulfed in the raging inferno, with some victims trapped in their vehicles.
The statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer if the command, Josephine Adeh, stated that the corpses of the deceased have been deposited at the Karu General Hospital morgue.
According to the police, “A distress call was received by Karu Division reporting a horrifying scene—a Dangote trailer, heavily loaded with cement and approaching Nyanya Bridge from AYA, had lost control and crashed into stationary vehicles trapped in traffic.
“The impact engulfed fourteen vehicles in a raging inferno. Panic and chaos followed as bystanders and motorists scrambled for safety. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, battling thick smoke and intense heat to rescue those trapped.
“Six victims were pulled from the wreckage and rushed to the hospital, but tragically, they were confirmed dead by medical personnel on duty. Their remains have been deposited at Karu General Hospital Morgue.
“Police operatives, in collaboration with fire service personnel, other security agencies, and courageous individuals at the scene, contained the inferno, and normal traffic flow has been restored.”
While extending its condolences to the families of the victims, the Command assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the disaster and prevent future occurrences.
“Members of the public are strongly urged to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits while driving, especially in high-traffic areas. Safe driving habits can prevent tragedies like this and save lives.”
An earlier statement by the FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, noted that the search and rescue team of FEMA, Federal Fire Service, FCT Fire Service, the Nigeria Police Force and NEMA were on ground to help the victims.
