A devastating trailer accident in Gezawa Local Government Area of Kano State has claimed the lives of more than 30 people, with authorities attributing the tragedy to reckless driving.
The fatal crash occurred when a trailer driver lost control of the vehicle, resulting in a catastrophic accident that left dozens dead and several others injured. Eyewitnesses described scenes of carnage as emergency responders rushed to the scene to assist survivors and recover bodies.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf expressed deep sorrow over the incident, mourning the victims and extending condolences to their families. The governor used the tragic occasion to issue a stern warning to drivers across the state about the dangers of reckless driving.
“This is a heartbreaking tragedy that could have been avoided,” Governor Yusuf said in a statement. “I call on all motorists, especially those driving heavy-duty vehicles, to exercise utmost caution and adhere strictly to traffic regulations. Lives depend on responsible driving.”
Preliminary investigations by traffic authorities suggest that excessive speed and driver negligence were primary factors in the crash. Officials indicated that the trailer was traveling at high speed before the driver lost control, leading to the deadly outcome.
The Gezawa accident adds to a disturbing pattern of fatal road crashes in Kano State and across Nigeria, where poor road conditions, vehicle maintenance issues, and driver behavior continue to claim thousands of lives annually.
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officials who responded to the scene emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better driver training, particularly for operators of commercial and heavy-duty vehicles.
Local community leaders in Gezawa expressed shock and grief over the scale of the tragedy, with many victims reportedly including residents going about their daily activities when the trailer veered off course.
The Kano State government has promised a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash and announced plans to intensify road safety campaigns and enforcement measures across the state.
Governor Yusuf directed relevant agencies to provide support to families of the deceased and ensure that injured survivors receive adequate medical treatment. He also called on the Federal Government to expedite road infrastructure improvements in the state.
The mass casualties have been taken to various hospitals and mortuaries in Kano metropolis, while authorities work to identify victims and notify next of kin.
Road safety advocates are renewing calls for comprehensive reforms to Nigeria’s transportation sector, including mandatory speed limiters on commercial vehicles, regular vehicle inspections, and harsher penalties for traffic violations.