An auto crash involving a commercial DAF trailer killed 19 persons at the Kateri axis of the Kaduna-Abuja highway on Sunday evening.
Confirming the report Kaduna State Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said security report disclosed that the crash was caused by a combination of speeding, and an exploding tyre, leading to a loss of control, which caused the vehicle to veer into the bush.
Aruwan said a total of 53 people were involved in the crash and16 of them died on the spot. Three others died later.
He added that 34 sustained injuries which ranged from bruises and cuts to dislocations, saying they were evacuated from the scene by personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps.
Aruwan further stated that the survivors were receiving treatment in hospital.
He said officials of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, visited the site of the crash to ascertain the report of events and avoid misrepresentations of the incident.
According to Auwal Idris, the driver, most of the passengers on board the ill-fated trailer were picked at Kara, by a filling station in Lagos, with some to be dropped off at Zaria, while Kano was meant to be the final destination.
Governor Nasir el-Rufai expressed shock and sadness at the report, and prayed for the repose of the souls of those who perished in the crash, while sending condolences to their families.
He also wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.
The Governor commended the personnel of the Federal Road Safety Corps for their swift response, and prompt evacuation of the casualties from the scene.
He enjoined drivers on the route to exercise caution at all times and avoid potentially-dangerous driving practices like speeding.
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