Trailer Crash Claims One Life in Yobe, Triggers Protest
By Ahmed Isah
A man died and several others were injured when a trailer crashed into a Mitsubishi Canter in Damagum at about 0050hrs on Dec. 10.
Police said the trailer, with registration number MUS 791 XH, driven by Aliyu Muhammad, 30, of Azare, Katagum LGA, Bauchi State, was travelling from Damaturu to Lagos when the driver lost control and rammed into the Canter ahead of him.
The Canter, with eighteen occupants and registration number AA 641 PKM, was driven by Usman Muhammad, 40, of Yaskawel Village.
A spokesman for the command said one passenger, Dahiru Maikudi, 40, of Yaskawel, was confirmed dead at the General Hospital, Damagum, while several others sustained injuries.
According to the command, six victims were referred to the Teaching Hospital for additional medical care.
The accident sparked a protest by youths who complained about recurring crashes along the Damaturu–Potiskum highway, especially near Damagum where market activities and pedestrian movement intensify on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Police operatives dispersed the protesters to prevent criminal exploitation of the situation.
Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ado commiserated with the bereaved family and sympathised with the injured, directing the Divisional Police Officer to work with the Local Government authorities on long-term preventive measures.
He cautioned motorists against speeding and urged strict adherence to traffic rules, warning that violators would face prosecution.
The commissioner also advised residents to avoid holding market activities close to the highway to minimise the risk of further accidents.
