20 Die, Five Injured in Fatal Crash at Hawan Kibo, Plateau

At least 20 people have died in a multiple-vehicle road crash at Hawan Kibo in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The fatal crash occurred at about 5pm on Friday, October 2, along the Hawan Kibo bend, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Preliminary findings by the FRSC indicated that brake failure caused one of the vehicles to lose control while descending the hill, resulting in the crash.

The accident involved four vehicles — a Howo Sino truck, a Toyota Corolla, a Toyota Bummer bus operated by Yankari Express, and a motorcycle.

The FRSC said 25 people were involved in the crash, comprising 23 males and two females.

Five people sustained injuries and were evacuated by rescue officers to hospitals for medical attention, while the bodies of the 20 deceased victims were taken to the mortuary at the Jos University Teaching Hospital.

Following the incident, FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, particularly the reported brake failure and subsequent loss of control.

The Corps Marshal also urged motorists and commercial vehicle operators to prioritise regular vehicle maintenance, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and exercise caution while driving, particularly on difficult sections of the highway.

The FRSC reiterated the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices in preventing avoidable road crashes.