By Abba Gwale
Security agencies in Kaduna state have reported that 19 people died in a ghastly road traffic crash at the Kateri axis of the Kaduna-Abuja highway on Sunday.
In a statement signed by the state commissioner of internal security and home affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said the accident occurred late on Sunday evening, involving a commercial DAF trailer and was caused by a combination of speeding and an exploding tyre, leading to a loss of control, which caused the vehicle to veer into the bush.
A total of fifty-three (53) people were involved in the crash; 16 of these died on the spot, with three others later confirmed dead. Thirty-four (34) sustained injuries which ranged from bruises and cuts to dislocations and head injuries. They were evacuated from the scene by personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps and the survivors are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
Officials of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, visited the site of the crash to ascertain the report of events and avoid misrepresentations of the incident.
Most of the passengers on board the ill-fated trailer were picked at Kara, by a filling station in Lagos, with some to be dropped off at Zaria, while Kano was meant to be the final destination,” said Auwal Idris, the driver.
Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed shock and sadness at the report, and prayed for the repose of the souls of those who perished in the crash, while sending condolences to their families. He also wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.
The Governor also commended the personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps for their swift response, and prompt evacuation of the casualties from the scene.
El-rufai warned drivers on the route to exercise caution at all times and avoid potentially dangerous driving practices like speeding.
