By Peter Uwumarogie
Tragedy struck in Gombe State on Easter Monday as a speeding truck ploughed into worshippers returning from prayers, killing five people and injuring 13 others in Billiri town.
Confirming the incident, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander in the state, Mr Samson Kaura, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the lone accident occurred at about 7:20 a.m. at Tashan Gona, Billiri Local Government Area.
Kaura said 18 people were involved in the crash — eight male adults and 10 female adults. “Five persons, including two men and three women, lost their lives, while 13 others sustained varying degrees of injuries, including fractures and open wounds,” he said.
He explained that the injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital Billiri, Amana Clinic, Lafiya Clinic, and the Gombe Specialist Hospital, while the corpses were deposited at the General Hospital in Billiri.
The FRSC boss identified speeding as the major cause of the crash and warned motorists to strictly adhere to the 30km/h speed limit within built-up areas. “Compliance reduces the severity of crashes and helps save lives,” he added.
The truck driver, who reportedly fled the scene, was later apprehended by the police in Billiri and is currently in custody.
Police Public Relations Officer in Gombe State, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, also confirmed the incident. He said the truck, laden with grains, hit a group of people who were returning from Easter prayers.
Abdullahi disclosed that the crash triggered a wave of anger among residents who set the vehicle ablaze and attempted to lynch the driver. However, the prompt intervention of security personnel prevented further escalation.
“The situation has been brought under control. The road is now clear and normalcy has returned,” he said.
