A devastating accident over the weekend in the Kwana Maciji area of Pankshin Local Government Area, Plateau State, claimed the lives of 19 people and left 11 others injured.
The victims, who were returning to Kano State after attending a wedding in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, were caught in the tragedy on Saturday.
According to the Chairman of the Pankshin Local Government Area Emergency Management Committee, John Dasar, the accident occurred as the travelers were on their way back home. The vehicle they were traveling in was involved in an accident, and while efforts were underway to rescue the passengers, the vehicle caught fire.
“The accident happened on Saturday. The people were from Kano; they came for a wedding ceremony at Barkin Ladi. They were returning home and were to pass through Gindiri to Bauchi, which is a shorter route. Unfortunately, the vehicle caught fire while people were being helped out, trapping 19 individuals who were burned beyond recognition,” Dasar explained.
The driver and a few others managed to escape the inferno. The 11 injured passengers were rushed to the Pankshin General Hospital for treatment.
The incident has sent shockwaves through both Plateau and Kano States, as families and communities mourn the tragic loss of lives. The Pankshin Local Government authorities have expressed their condolences and are coordinating with emergency services to assist the survivors and provide support to the victims’ families.
This tragic event underscores the importance of enhanced road safety measures and emergency response protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
