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Reporter: Emilly Jordan
At least 20 people have been killed and several others injured in a multiple-vehicle crash at Hawan Kibo in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria, with authorities attributing the accident to brake failure.
The crash occurred on Friday evening along the Hawan Kibo-Jos route, an area known for its steep terrain and difficult bends. According to reports, a truck lost control after experiencing brake failure and collided with several other vehicles, causing a major crash that left victims trapped and prompted residents and emergency responders to rush to the scene.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau State confirmed the death toll. Sector Commander Corps Commander Adelaja Ogungbemi said the truck's braking system failed, resulting in the collision with other vehicles.
Reports from the scene said the crash involved a Howo Sino truck, a Toyota Corolla, a Toyota Hummer bus operated by Yankari Express and a motorcycle. The FRSC said the crash occurred after the truck suffered brake failure and lost control before striking the other road users.
According to information released by the FRSC through its national public education office, 25 people were involved in the crash, including 23 males and two females. Twenty males died, while five people — three males and two females — sustained injuries. The injured victims were taken to Riyom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital for medical treatment, while the bodies of those who died were deposited at the Jos University Teaching Hospital mortuary.
Other reports gave additional details about the victims, saying 18 of those killed were occupants of the Yankari Express bus. The remaining victims were reported to have been travelling in or on other vehicles involved in the collision.
Emergency personnel worked to evacuate injured victims and clear the wreckage from the highway. The FRSC said its rescue teams also removed the obstruction created by the crash and restored traffic along the affected section of the road.
The incident has renewed attention on vehicle maintenance and road safety, particularly for heavy-duty and commercial vehicles travelling through difficult terrain. Ogungbemi urged motorists to properly inspect their vehicles before beginning journeys and to pay particular attention to braking systems and other critical mechanical components.
FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressed sadness over the loss of life and directed the agency's crash investigation team to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the reported brake failure and loss of control. He also urged commercial and heavy-duty vehicle operators to prioritize roadworthiness, maintenance and responsible speed management.
The crash is among the latest serious road accidents reported in Nigeria, highlighting the continuing risks faced by motorists and passengers on major highways. Authorities have continued to urge drivers to identify and repair mechanical faults before travelling, particularly when operating heavily loaded vehicles or travelling on steep and winding roads.