In a harrowing late-night accident that sent shockwaves across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), personnel of the Emergency Management Department (FEMD) sprang into action to rescue two victims from a burning vehicle, while the driver tragically lost his life.
The fatal incident occurred around 9:21 p.m. on Wednesday along the busy Kubwa–Suleja Expressway, directly opposite Niger Barracks in Abuja. A Peugeot J5 bus, reportedly loaded with bags of groundnuts, collided with a heavy-duty truck and instantly erupted into flames, leaving the driver fatally trapped in the inferno.
According to Mr. Monday Adie, Head of Operations, Search and Rescue at FEMD, the driver suffered catastrophic burns and was declared dead at the scene.
> “The charred remains of the victim were respectfully recovered and handed over to the grieving family for burial,” Adie confirmed.
An eyewitness, who declined to be named, recounted the terrifying moment the crash occurred.
> “The entire bus burst into flames within seconds of impact. It was a horrific sight. We feared no one would make it out alive,” he said.
Miraculously, two passengers were rescued from the engulfed vehicle by FEMD operatives, supported by the FCT Fire Service, Nigerian Army, and the FCT Police Command. One of the survivors was rushed to the Asokoro General Hospital but was later discharged at the request of his family.
The coordinated rescue operation lasted until 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, highlighting the swift and courageous response of emergency responders.
Reacting to the tragedy, Acting Director General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, issued a stern appeal to road users:
> “This unfortunate incident serves as a grave reminder of the need for vigilance. We urge all drivers to routinely service their vehicles and adhere strictly to traffic regulations.”
He also emphasized the importance of citizen participation in emergency response.
> “We remind all residents of the FCT to dial the toll-free number 112 in any emergency situation. Timely reporting can make the difference between life and death.”
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing road safety measures to prevent future tragedies of this magnitude.
As the FCT mourns yet another life lost to avoidable road carnage, calls for safer driving practices and stricter enforcement of transport regulations are growing louder.
PIONEER NEWS 