Seven people have died and 11 others sustained injuries in a multiple-vehicle crash along Gombe-Billiri Road in Gombe State, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed.
The FRSC Sector Commander in Gombe State, Mr Samson Kaura, confirmed the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Friday.
Kaura said the crash, involving eight vehicles, occurred at about 5.30 p.m. on Thursday at Tashan Magariya Junction, Kumo, in Akko Local Government Area.
He said 25 people were involved in the accident, comprising 14 adult males, three adult females and eight children.
According to him, 11 people sustained varying injuries, including compound fractures, lacerations and bruises.
All those involved in the crash were taken to public hospitals in Kumo for medical examinations and treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited in the hospitals’ mortuaries.
Kaura explained that a Daf trailer travelling from Gombe to Yola lost control due to brake failure.
He said the trailer ran into two Volkswagen Golf cars before crashing into five motorcycles, killing seven people and injuring 11 others.
The sector commander urged motorists to inspect their vehicles before embarking on journeys and adhere to recommended speed limits.
“I would advise motorists to observe speed limits, especially in built-up areas and along busy roads. Driving at a reduced speed can help minimise the severity of injuries and the extent of damage when a road crash occurs.”
He also called on authorities and relevant stakeholders to consider relocating markets situated along highways or fencing them off to prevent traders and pedestrians from moving directly onto the roads.
Kaura further advocated the provision of safe pedestrian crossing facilities, including footbridges, and urged people to use them when crossing highways.
“Furthermore, motorcycle operators should avoid parking along the roadside, particularly on market days, such as the Kumo Market Day, when traffic and pedestrian activities increase.”
He said motorcycle operators should be provided with designated parking spaces within motor parks or other safe locations away from highways.
“As we witnessed on Thursday, parking motorcycles along the roadside is extremely dangerous and exposes operators and other road users to serious risks.
“I therefore urge motorists, motorcycle operators, market traders, pedestrians and the relevant authorities to take these safety measures seriously to prevent further accidents and protect lives,” he advised.