A fresh road accident occurred Monday morning near the Karu Bridge on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, involving a trailer and a vehicle transporting sachet water.
Though the number of casualties has yet to be confirmed, emergency responders were deployed swiftly to the scene to manage the situation and prevent further disruptions to the already congested route.
This marks the third major accident in just two months along the same corridor, raising serious concerns over road safety, traffic management, and the condition of the highway infrastructure.
Eyewitnesses Describe Chaotic Scene
Commuters who witnessed the incident said the trailer appeared to lose control before colliding with the smaller vehicle.
“The trailer swerved suddenly and crashed into the van carrying sachet water. It happened very fast,” said Musa Danlami, a regular user of the route.
Photographs shared on social media showed damaged vehicles blocking parts of the expressway, as bystanders gathered to assist and film the aftermath.
Emergency Services Respond Promptly
Personnel from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police, and National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) were seen clearing debris and directing traffic shortly after the crash.
An official from the FRSC, who spoke anonymously, said:
“We are still assessing the situation. The injured, if any, will be evacuated to the nearest hospital. The public will be updated once we have verified casualty figures.”
Pattern of Accidents Raises Alarm
The Abuja-Keffi Expressway, especially near Karu Bridge, has seen a spike in serious accidents in recent months. In April and early May, two separate crashes—both involving heavy-duty vehicles—led to fatalities and temporary closures of the road.
Residents and motorists are increasingly worried that the pattern could be due to a combination of road design flaws, reckless driving, over-speeding, and inadequate traffic enforcement.
Calls for Government Action
Civic groups and residents have repeatedly urged the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to upgrade the road infrastructure and install speed cameras and safety signage.
“Three serious accidents in two months is no coincidence. The government needs to act now to prevent more lives from being lost,” said Esther Anene, a commuter advocate and resident of Mararaba.
Experts have also suggested a review of roadworthiness protocols for articulated vehicles and better driver training programs.
A Road in Desperate Need of Intervention
The Abuja-Keffi Expressway serves as a vital link between the FCT and Nasarawa State, accommodating tens of thousands of vehicles daily. Despite its importance, the road remains narrow in several stretches and often congested, particularly during rush hours.
Efforts to dualize and expand the road have stalled, further complicating safety concerns.
