Jigawa Road Crash: 11 Dead, 9 Injured on Christmas

A devastating motor accident occurred on Thursday, Christmas Day, in Beguwa village along Sankara Road, Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State, claiming the lives of 11 people and leaving 9 others injured, including the driver. The accident happened around midday as Christian faithful were celebrating Christmas across the state.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as horrific, stating that the driver was speeding recklessly despite the narrow and busy nature of the road. “The driver was on top speed and didn’t even attempt to slow down when he approached a bend near the village,” said Malam Sani, an eyewitness.

Another witness, Aisha Inuwa, recounted the panic that ensued as people rushed to the scene. “It was a horrifying sight. Some passengers died instantly while others were trapped under the vehicle. Our village people struggled to bring the victims out,” she said.

Lawal Musa, another eyewitness, noted that the vehicle appeared unfit for the road and was speeding at the time of the incident. “The driver was reckless, and the vehicle seemed to have brake issues. It’s a miracle anyone survived,” Musa added.

Jigawa State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Shi’isu Adam, confirmed the incident, describing it as “very unfortunate” and stating that investigations are ongoing. “We lost 11 people in the crash, and 9 others are receiving treatment in the hospital, including the driver,” he said.

Adam assured that justice would be served, noting that the driver would face charges for reckless driving and causing death by dangerous driving once he recovers. “The Command will not hesitate to charge him… We urge drivers to prioritize safety, especially during festive seasons,” he added.

In a separate incident, two people died in a diesel tanker explosion at Oto-Ijanikin near Lagos State University of Education along the Badagry Expressway. The truck reportedly lost control while overtaking, crashed, and ignited.

The Jigawa police command appealed for calm, allowing authorities to investigate the accident’s cause.