Dozens killed in Sokoto auto crash

No fewer than 27 people were killed in a motor accident that involved a trailer, conveying cattle and passengers in Sokoto State, officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have confirmed yesterday. The accident, which occurred on Monday along Ruwa Wuri-Tangaza Road in Sokoto State also claimed lives of a number of cows and sheep loaded in the affected trailer, while 18 people also sustained injuries.

They are now receiving medical attention at Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto. According to an eyewitness, the driver of the trailer with registration number Sokoto: XA 443 SAA, lost control, while heading to Warri in Delta State and it plunged into a river close to Masallaci Village in Tangaza Local Government Area. FRSC officials confirmed that the people involved in the accident had since been buried in Bagida Village. Speaking to journalists, the Sector Commander of the FRSC, Sokoto, Dr. Umaru Aliyu said: “Our findings revealed that the accident occurred due to over-loading and speeding, of which 27 people died and 15 were seriously injured.”

The FRSC boss advised motorists to adhere to the traffic laws and avoid any habits that could endanger lives, while on the roads. He added thus: “Those injured are receiving treatment at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, UDUTH, Sokoto, while the driver of the trailer and his motor boy fled.”