Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash that occurred today along the Keffi–Abuja Highway at Angwan Jarmi, which regrettably claimed the lives of seven persons. The Corps Marshal extends his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prays for the peaceful repose of their souls. He describes the incident as painful and devastating, noting that no loss of life on the nation’s highways is acceptable. This was contained in a statement signed by Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr, Assistant Corps Marshal, Corps Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps Headquarters, Abuja.
The statement reads: “Preliminary reports indicate that the crash involved a lone vehicle suspected to have been driven at excessive speed, leading to loss of control and a collision after veering into the opposite lane. Rescue teams of the Federal Road Safety Corps were promptly mobilised upon receiving distress alerts.
“However, on arrival at the scene, personnel encountered heightened tension among some members of the public, including commercial motorcycle operators, which unfortunately escalated into a mob attack on the Keffi Unit Command.
“The Corps acknowledges the depth of public emotion that often follows fatal road crashes. While initial findings suggest speeding and loss of control as likely causes, the Corps Marshal has ordered a comprehensive and transparent investigation into all circumstances surrounding the crash, including 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 the Corps’ regulations.
“The Corps Marshal also commended the Nigeria Police Force and the Army for their swift intervention and timely reinforcement, which helped to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order. Their professionalism and prompt response were instrumental in stabilizing the situation and safeguarding 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 members of the public to allow due process to take its course. Violence against rescue and enforcement personnel only undermines collective efforts to safeguard lives on our highways.
“The Federal Road Safety Corps reassures Nigerians of its dedication to road safety, fairness, and transparency. As investigations proceed, the Corps will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that such tragedies are prevented and that public confidence remains strengthened,” it also added.
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