A tragic incident occurred in Yobe State when an 18-seater Toyota Hiace Bus bearing the registration number KTG 283 XA crashed into the crowded Damagum market.
The accident resulted in the death of a pregnant woman and four others, while 19 individuals sustained various injuries.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Sector Commander, Livinus Yilzoom, confirmed the details to Channels TV on Tuesday.
He explained that the crash took place on Sunday evening as pedestrians were leaving the market.
According to Yilzoom, the driver of the bus lost control while attempting to avoid hitting pedestrians, ultimately striking five people waiting by the roadside.
“The five individuals who lost their lives were not passengers of the vehicle; they were pedestrians,” Yilzoom clarified.
Upon receiving the report, the Dogon Kuka Unit Command sent a crash investigation team to the scene and ensured the victims were transported to Damagum General Hospital for medical treatment.
Preliminary findings suggested that the cause of the accident was a combination of speeding and loss of vehicle control.
Local residents also voiced concerns, highlighting the growing danger of having markets situated along highways, especially on market days.