The Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr Samson Kaura, has confirmed the death of seven persons in a multiple crash along the Gombe-Billiri Road in the state.
Kaura confirmed the incident in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Friday.
He said the crash, which involved eight vehicles, occurred at about 5.30 p.m. on Thursday at Tashan Magariya Junction, Kumo, in Akko Local Government Area.
According to him, 25 persons, comprising 14 male adults, three female adults and eight children, were involved in the crash.
He said 11 persons sustained varying degrees of injuries, including compound fractures, lacerations and bruises.
Kaura stated that all those involved in the crash were taken to public hospitals in Kumo for medical examination and treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited in hospital mortuaries.
He said a DAF trailer travelling from Gombe to Yola lost control due to brake failure, ran into two Volkswagen Golf cars and subsequently crashed into five motorcycles, killing seven persons and injuring 11 others.
Kaura advised motorists to inspect their vehicles before embarking on journeys and observe recommended speed limits.
‘I would advise motorists to observe speed limits, especially in built-up areas and along busy roads. Driving at a reduced speed can help minimise the severity of injuries and the extent of damage when a road crash occurs.’
He urged the authorities and other stakeholders to consider relocating markets situated along highways or fencing them off to prevent traders and pedestrians from moving directly onto the roads.
He also called for the provision of safe pedestrian crossings, including footbridges, and urged people to use them when crossing highways.
‘Furthermore, motorcycle operators should avoid parking along the roadside, particularly on market days, such as the Kumo Market Day, when traffic and pedestrian activities increase.’
According to him, motorcycle operators should be provided with designated parking areas within motor parks or other safe locations away from highways.
‘As we witnessed on Thursday, parking motorcycles along the roadside is extremely dangerous and exposes operators and other road users to serious risks.
‘I therefore urge motorists, motorcycle operators, market traders, pedestrians and the relevant authorities to take these safety measures seriously to prevent further accidents and protect lives,’ he advised.