A tragic road accident along the Yola–Song highway in Adamawa State has claimed the lives of six people, including four members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and a Nigerian Army officer.
The fatal crash occurred near Barikin-Sajo when a military weapons truck collided head-on with a commercial Hummer bus travelling from Kano to Mubi. The impact triggered a massive fire that engulfed both vehicles, trapping several occupants.
According to eyewitness accounts, the military truck reportedly veered into the lane of the oncoming bus while attempting to overtake another vehicle at a sharp bend. The collision resulted in an inferno that quickly spread, leaving little chance of escape for those inside the bus.
While some witnesses suggested that as many as ten people may have died in the accident, security authorities have officially confirmed six fatalities.
The spokesperson for the Adamawa State Police Command, SP Suleiman Nguroje, stated that all five occupants of the commercial bus were burned to death. Preliminary investigations identified four of the victims as NYSC members serving in Adamawa State, while the fifth was another passenger.
Police also confirmed that a military officer attached to the gun truck later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other emergency response agencies arrived at the scene to rescue victims, manage the situation, and clear the affected section of the road.
The incident has renewed concerns over dangerous overtaking and speeding on Nigerian highways, with road safety experts repeatedly warning that such practices remain major causes of fatal accidents across the country.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Reactions From Nigerians
“This is heartbreaking. Four young corps members lost their lives while serving their country.”
“Reckless overtaking continues to claim innocent lives. Traffic laws must be enforced more strictly.”
“My condolences to the families of the victims. Such tragedies are becoming far too common on our roads.”
“The government and road safety agencies need to intensify awareness campaigns and monitoring on highways.”
Published by Ejoh Caleb
