Seven people have been confirmed dead following a road crash along the Keffi–Abuja Highway. Preliminary reports indicate that a lone vehicle, allegedly driven at excessive speed, lost control and veered into the opposite lane, resulting in the fatal collision.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said its rescue teams were mobilised promptly after distress alerts were received. However, on arrival, personnel reportedly encountered heightened tension among some members of the public.
According to the Corps, commercial motorcyclists were among those involved in the unrest, which later escalated into a mob attack on the Keffi Unit Command. Reacting to the incident, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Malam Shehu Mohammed, said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives.
In a statement issued on Thursday by FRSC spokesman Olusegun Ogungbemide, Mohammed described the crash as “painful and devastating,” stressing that no loss of life on the nation’s highways is acceptable.
While initial findings point to speeding and loss of control, he ordered a comprehensive and transparent investigation, including into allegations of possible patrol-related factors.
“The Corps will not be hasty in apportioning blame nor dismissive of public concerns. Any personnel found to have acted outside established operational standards will be held accountable in line with regulations,” he said.
Mohammed acknowledged the depth of public emotion that often follows fatal road crashes and appealed for calm. He commended the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army for swiftly restoring order and preventing further breakdown of law and order, noting that their intervention stabilised the situation and safeguarded lives and property.
“The Corps remains committed to professionalism, restraint and continuous engagement with communities to foster mutual trust. We appeal for calm and urge the public to allow due process. Violence against rescue and enforcement personnel undermines efforts to safeguard lives,” he said.
The FRSC reaffirmed its commitment to road safety, fairness and transparency as investigations continue.