The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a warning to the public to avoid night travel and unsafe transportation following a fatal road accident in Niger. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, made this call in response to the tragic incident that occurred at KM 02, Koriagi village, Agaei, Lapai-Bida route.
The accident, which took place at 04:40 am on Sunday, involved a DAF tanker, two DAF trucks, and a Toyota car. The tanker, carrying petrol and traveling from Lagos to Kano, was speeding when the driver lost control, resulting in the vehicle catching fire. The ensuing inferno caused other vehicles, including another DAF truck transporting cows and passengers, to crash into the burning tanker. All involved vehicles were completely destroyed.
The crash claimed the lives of 37 passengers, while 18 others sustained various injuries. The FRSC has highlighted that the accident was primarily caused by speed violations and has reiterated its earlier directive from August 30 to restrict the transportation of flammable substances like petroleum products.
Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed emphasized the need for public cooperation in adhering to road safety measures and avoiding night travel, especially under unsafe conditions. Despite ongoing efforts and collaborations with transport unions, security agencies, and traffic management authorities, the FRSC has noted a continued disregard for safety campaigns.
Mohammed urged the public to support FRSC’s initiatives in curbing road traffic violations and improving overall road safety.