The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed a fatal multiple-vehicle road traffic crash that claimed the lives of 12 persons at Gada Biyu along the Yangoji–Abuja corridor on Sunday, 11 January 2026.
According to the FRSC, the crash occurred at about 11:45 a.m. and involved four vehicles, comprising a commercial trailer conveying coal, a commercial bus, and two commercial cars.
Preliminary investigations by the Corps revealed that the incident was likely caused by speed violation and dangerous driving. The FRSC disclosed that the trailer driver was allegedly driving beyond the legally prescribed speed limit for the corridor, lost control of the vehicle, and crashed into already parked vehicles, triggering the fatal collision.
A total of 18 persons were involved in the crash, including eight adult males, four adult females, two male children, and four female children. Five victims died instantly at the scene, while seven others who were rescued and taken to hospital later succumbed to their injuries, bringing the total number of fatalities to 12. Three other victims sustained injuries of varying severity, including bruises, cuts, fractures, and head injuries, and are currently receiving medical attention.
FRSC operatives received the distress call at 11:47 a.m. and arrived at the scene by 11:54 a.m., recording a response time of seven minutes. The injured victims were promptly evacuated to Abaji General Hospital, while the deceased were released to their families for burial in line with established procedures. The Motor Traffic Division (MTD), Kwali, has taken over the investigation to determine further liabilities.
In addition to rescue operations, the FRSC facilitated the speedy removal of all obstructions caused by the crash, ensuring the prompt restoration of free traffic flow and preventing secondary crashes along the busy corridor.
Reacting to the incident, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, described the crash as tragic and avoidable, while commiserating with the families of the deceased. He cautioned motorists, particularly drivers of heavy-duty vehicles, against speeding and reckless driving, emphasising that strict adherence to speed limits and traffic regulations remains critical to saving lives.
The Corps Marshal reaffirmed the FRSC’s commitment to sustained enforcement, public enlightenment, and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to reduce road traffic crashes and enhance safety on Nigerian roads.
