By SUNTV Global Channel | January 12, 2026
At least 12 people have lost their lives following a devastating road traffic crash at Gada Biyu, along the Yangoji–Abuja (YGJ–ABJ) corridor, in the Federal Capital Territory.
The fatal incident, which occurred at about 11:45am on Sunday, involved four vehicles—a commercial trailer conveying coal, a commercial bus, and two commercial cars.
Findings by SUNTV Global Channel indicate that the crash was triggered when the driver of the coal-laden trailer, allegedly travelling at excessive speed, lost control and rammed into vehicles that were already parked, setting off a deadly chain collision.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Monday, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said preliminary investigations pointed to speed violation and dangerous driving as the primary causes of the crash.
According to the FRSC Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the truck driver exceeded the legally prescribed speed limit for the corridor before losing control of the vehicle.
18 Involved, 12 Confirmed Dead
The FRSC disclosed that 18 persons were involved in the crash, comprising eight adult males, four adult females, two male children, and four female children.
Five victims were confirmed dead on the spot, while seven others, who were initially rescued and rushed to hospital, later died from their injuries—bringing the total death toll to 12.
Three other victims sustained injuries ranging from bruises and cuts to fractures and head injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
Swift Emergency Response
The Corps said it received a distress call at 11:47am and arrived at the scene by 11:54am, recording a seven-minute response time.
Injured victims were evacuated to Abaji General Hospital, while the bodies of the deceased were released to their families for burial in accordance with standard procedures.
FRSC Boss Reacts
Reacting to the tragedy, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims, describing the crash as tragic and entirely avoidable.
He warned that reckless driving and speeding, especially by drivers of heavy-duty vehicles, continue to claim innocent lives on Nigerian roads.
The FRSC boss urged motorists to strictly obey speed limits and traffic regulations, stressing that compliance remains critical to reducing road crashes and saving lives.
Mohammed also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strict enforcement, continuous public enlightenment, and collaboration with stakeholders to enhance safety on highways across the country.
— SUNTV Global Channel