The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has confirmed that six people lost their lives, and 14 vehicles were destroyed in a fiery explosion near Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway on Wednesday evening.
The FCT Emergency Management Department claimed the incident occurred around 7:14 p.m. when a truck lost control and crashed into multiple vehicles, sparking an explosion and a massive fire.
However, in a statement issued later that night, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, stated that the accident happened at 6:58 p.m.
She clarified that the crash involved a Dangote trailer loaded with cement, which lost control and plowed into vehicles stuck in traffic while approaching Nyanya Bridge from AYA.
The statement read, “The FCT Police Command deeply regrets to confirm a devastating motor vehicle accident that occurred today, March 19, 2025, at about 6:58 pm before Nyanya Bridge.
“A distress call was received by Karu Division reporting a horrifying scene—a Dangote trailer, heavily loaded with cement and approaching Nyanya Bridge from AYA, had lost control and crashed into stationary vehicles trapped in traffic.
“The impact engulfed fourteen vehicles in a raging inferno. Panic and chaos followed as bystanders and motorists scrambled for safety.
“Emergency responders rushed to the scene, battling thick smoke and intense heat to rescue those trapped.
“Six victims were pulled from the wreckage and rushed to the hospital, but tragically, they were confirmed dead by medical personnel on duty. Their remains have been deposited at Karu General Hospital Morgue.
“Police operatives, in collaboration with fire service personnel, other security agencies, and courageous individuals at the scene, contained the inferno, and normal traffic flow has been restored.”
The police assured the public that investigations were ongoing to determine the cause of the accident while urging drivers to observe speed limits and exercise caution to prevent similar incidents.
“The FCT Police Command extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and assures the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of this disaster and prevent future occurrences,” it added.
KanyiDaily also reported how a tanker explosion on Otedola Bridge in Lagos claimed one life and left three others with severe burns.
