21 die along Zaria–Kano expressway

A tragic accident along the Zaria–Kano expressway on Sunday morning has claimed the lives of 21 people, according to officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

The crash occurred at approximately 8:23 a.m. near Kasuwar Dogo in the Dakatsalle axis. It involved a DAF trailer (registration: GWL 422 ZE) and a Toyota Hummer bus (registration: KMC 171 YM).

Preliminary findings from the FRSC’s Kano State Sector Command indicated that the Hummer bus driver was driving against traffic, leading to a direct crash with the trailer.

The head-on impact sparked a blaze that consumed both vehicles, with many of the victims reportedly burnt beyond recognition.

Sector Commander M.B. Bature confirmed that the FRSC rescue team was dispatched immediately after receiving the alert even as firefighting units from both federal and state services were also mobilized to extinguish the flames and support the emergency response.

“Twenty-four people were involved in the crash. Sadly, 21 persons lost their lives, while three others sustained various degrees of injuries,” said CRC Abdullahi Labaran, the FRSC’s Public Education Officer in Kano.

The bodies of the deceased were transported to Nassarawa Hospital Mortuary in Kano, while the injured are receiving care at Garun Malam General Hospital.

Personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, alongside an FRSC towing unit (Rs1.2 Kano), assisted in clearing the wreckage and restoring traffic flow along the busy route.

Expressing sympathy, Bature offered condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

He also issued a stern warning to drivers about the risks associated with reckless driving, particularly driving against traffic, overtaking carelessly, and traveling at night.

“This unfortunate incident is a painful reminder of the need for strict adherence to traffic regulations. Most crashes are avoidable if only road users comply with basic safety protocols,” Bature said.

He urged commercial vehicle operators to be more mindful of speed limits and to prioritize safety to prevent similar tragedies in the future.