Tragedy struck on Karu Bridge in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory when a heavy-duty truck carrying cement lost control and rammed into multiple vehicles, leaving several feared dead and many others injured.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said the truck, which was descending the steep Kugbo hill, suffered brake failure and plowed into oncoming traffic. The impact crushed several vehicles, trapping occupants and drawing immediate concern from passersby and commuters.
“The driver of the ill-fated truck reportedly took to his heels in an attempt to escape, fearing mob attack due to the severity of the crash,” a witness told reporters. “But he was caught by commercial motorcyclists near the Karu Roundabout before he could flee.”
Emergency responders, including personnel from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), arrived shortly after to manage the chaotic scene, evacuate victims, and restore order. The incident caused a massive traffic gridlock in the area, as sympathisers and onlookers crowded the bridge.
Though the number of casualties could not be independently confirmed as of press time, multiple sources indicated that the death toll may be significant, given the extent of the damage.
This latest tragedy comes on the heels of a similar accident on the same bridge involving a Dangote trailer powered by compressed natural gas (CNG), which also experienced brake failure and led to multiple fatalities.
