By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of 20 people in a multiple road traffic crash along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route in Plateau State, with preliminary findings indicating brake failure and subsequent loss of control as the likely causes.
According to an official statement signed by the Corps Public Education Officer, Osondu Ohaeri, the crash occurred at about 3:32 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, shortly after Sopp Water Falls.
The crash involved 25 people, comprising 23 males and two females. Five persons, three males and two females, sustained injuries, while 20 males were killed in the incident.
Four vehicles were involved in the crash, including a Howo Sino truck with registration number AGL 525 YN, a Toyota Corolla with registration number AB 129 M, a Toyota Bummer bus operated by Yankari Express and an unregistered motorcycle.
The injured victims were evacuated to Ryom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital for medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited at the Jos University Teaching Hospital mortuary.
FRSC rescue personnel subsequently cleared the obstruction caused by the crash and restored traffic along the affected section of the highway.
Reacting to the tragedy, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, mni, expressed sadness over the loss of lives and commiserated with the families, friends and associates of the deceased.
Mohammed prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and wished those injured a speedy recovery.
The Corps Marshal has also directed the FRSC crash investigation team to conduct a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the reported brake failure and loss of control.
He urged motorists, particularly operators of commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, to prioritise vehicle roadworthiness, regular maintenance, speed management and responsible driving.
Mohammed further urged motorists to exercise greater caution, stressing that the loss of 20 lives in a single crash represented 20 families suddenly plunged into grief.
He said every casualty represented a name, a home, a family and a future, urging all road users to take personal responsibility for safety and avoid actions that could result in preventable crashes.
The FRSC Corps Marshal reiterated that no journey is so urgent that it should end in the loss of a human life.
