A tragic incident unfolded in Gombe State on Easter Monday when a speeding truck collided with worshippers returning from prayers, resulting in the deaths of five individuals and injuries to 13 others in Billiri town.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in the state, Mr Samson Kaura, confirmed the incident, stating to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the solitary accident occurred at approximately 7:20 a.m. at Tashan Gona, within the Billiri Local Government Area.
Kaura reported that 18 individuals were involved in the crash, comprising eight male adults and 10 female adults. “Five persons, including two men and three women, lost their lives, while 13 others sustained varying degrees of injuries, including fractures and open wounds,” he detailed.
He further explained that the injured victims were taken to the General Hospital Billiri, Amana Clinic, Lafiya Clinic, and the Gombe Specialist Hospital, while the deceased were deposited at the General Hospital in Billiri.
Identifying speeding as the primary cause of the accident, the FRSC head urged motorists to strictly observe the 30km/h speed limit in built-up areas. “Compliance reduces the severity of crashes and helps save lives,” he emphasised.
The truck driver, who allegedly fled the scene, was later apprehended by the police in Billiri and is currently in custody.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Gombe State, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, also confirmed the incident, stating that the truck, loaded with grains, struck a group of individuals returning from Easter prayers.
Abdullahi revealed that the crash incited a wave of anger among residents, leading to the vehicle being set ablaze and attempts to lynch the driver. However, the swift intervention of security personnel prevented further escalation.
“The situation has been brought under control. The road is now clear and normalcy has returned,” he concluded.
