By Nkechi Eze
A road traffic accident involving a J5 truck conveying sachet water and a Dangote trailer occurred on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the Karu Bridge area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The incident, which disrupted vehicular movement for some time, fortunately resulted in no loss of life.
According to reports made available by the Head of Public Affairs at the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), Mrs. Nkechi Isa, the accident occurred in the early hours of the day when the J5 truck, upon approaching ongoing road maintenance works around the Karu Bridge, attempted to brake suddenly. The unexpected stop caused the Dangote trailer, which was trailing closely behind, to crash into the rear of the J5 truck.
Eyewitnesses at the scene confirmed that the J5 driver sustained injuries in the impact and was immediately attended to by emergency response teams. He was later evacuated to a nearby hospital where he is reportedly receiving medical care.
The accident caused a temporary buildup of traffic in the area as emergency responders worked swiftly to manage the scene and clear the vehicles involved. Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and personnel from the FCT Emergency Management Department were on the ground to ensure order and assist with traffic diversion.
Authorities attributed the accident to sudden braking by the sachet water truck driver after he spotted officials of the road maintenance agency carrying out repairs around the bridge section. The ongoing repair work had narrowed the lane, prompting the driver to halt abruptly, leading to the unfortunate collision.
While commending the swift intervention of emergency agencies, Isa reiterated the importance of heightened awareness and caution by drivers approaching construction zones or roadworks. She also emphasized the need for adequate signage and advance notice by road maintenance agencies to alert approaching motorists.
“No life was lost, and this is something we are thankful for,” she said. “However, it is a reminder of the importance of safer driving practices and effective coordination during road repair operations to prevent such incidents.”
Motorists plying the Karu Bridge route are advised to remain cautious and adhere to traffic directives as repair works continue in the area.
