37 Killed in Niger as FRSC Marshal Urges Caution Against Night Travel, Unsafe Transport

'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja 

DAILY COURIER – The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on stakeholders and the motoring public to caution against night travel and reliance on unsafe transport methods following a tragic accident on the Lapai-Bida route in Niger State. The accident, which occurred at 4:40 a.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at Koriagi village, involved a tanker loaded with petroleum, resulting in the death of 37 people and injuries to 18 others.

According to the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, the crash involved four vehicles: a DAF tanker, two DAF trucks, and a Toyota car. The tanker, which was transporting petroleum motor spirit (PMS) from Lagos to Kano, exceeded the legal speed limit, causing the driver to lose control and crash, leading to a fiery explosion. A second DAF truck, loaded with both passengers and livestock, also speeding, crashed into the burning tanker, followed by the Toyota and the third DAF truck, which failed to maintain a safe driving distance. All the vehicles involved were completely destroyed by the inferno.

The survivors have been taken to Lapai General Hospital and the Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida Specialist Hospital in Minna for medical treatment.

The FRSC Corps Marshal expressed deep concern over the increasing disregard for road safety, particularly at night, when many drivers engage in dangerous behaviors, such as speeding and using unsafe vehicles. Despite extensive efforts by the FRSC in partnership with transport unions, security agencies, and state traffic management agencies, many commuters continue to violate road safety rules.

Mohammed emphasized the need for the public to support FRSC's efforts to curb dangerous road practices. He called on transport operators to adhere to safety regulations, avoid night travel, and ensure proper vehicle maintenance to prevent further tragedies on Nigeria’s roads.

The FRSC reiterated its commitment to ensuring road safety but stressed that individual responsibility and community support are crucial in preventing fatal accidents like this one.