Seven Killed, Five Injured in Bauchi Highway Crash

A devastating road crash along the Bauchi, Maiduguri Federal Highway has claimed the lives of seven people, while five others sustained serious injuries, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

The tragic incident occurred at Kajutu Village in Bauchi State and has once again highlighted the urgent need for safer driving practices on Nigerian highways.

The FRSC Bauchi Sector Command disclosed that 12 people were involved in the crash. The collision involved a commercial Galaxy Sharon minibus, operated under the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and a MAN diesel tipper truck transporting sand. Rescue personnel responded promptly, evacuating victims from the wreckage.

According to preliminary investigations by the FRSC, the accident was caused by traffic sign/light violations and dangerous driving on a section of the highway described as paved but rough. Authorities noted that reckless driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes on Nigeria’s highways.

The five injured victims were taken to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, where they are receiving medical treatment.

Meanwhile, funeral prayers for the deceased were held in Bauchi, with government officials, community leaders, and sympathisers in attendance.

RoadKing Safety Perspective

This tragic crash serves as another reminder that many road fatalities are preventable. Drivers must:

• Obey traffic signs
• Avoid excessive speed
• Maintain safe following distances
• Exercise caution when driving on deteriorating road surfaces.
• Commercial transport operators should also ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on journeys.

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Every road user has a role to play in reducing crashes and protecting lives.

Key Road Safety Tips

1. Obey all traffic signs and road markings.
2. Avoid speeding and dangerous overtaking.
3. Maintain your vehicle regularly before long trips.
4. Stay alert, especially on highways with damaged road surfaces.
5. Ensure passengers always wear seat belts.