The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Gombe State has disclosed that 72 people lost their lives in 171 road traffic crashes during the first six months of 2025.
This alarming statistic was revealed by Felix Kaura, the Gombe Sector Commander of the FRSC, during an interview with journalists on Wednesday.
According to the report, a total of 1,156 persons were involved in these accidents, with 641 sustaining various degrees of injuries while 443 escaped unhurt.
Kaura provided a detailed breakdown of the statistics, noting that "6.23 per cent of the passengers involved in the crashes in the period under review died, 55.45 per cent sustained injuries, and 38.32 per cent went home without injuries."
Monthly Fatality Distribution
The monthly distribution of fatalities revealed a concerning pattern: January recorded the highest number with 18 deaths, followed by April and June with 16 deaths each. February saw 12 fatalities, while March and May recorded the lowest with 5 deaths each.
Out of the 234 vehicles involved in these accidents, 105 were either bicycles or tricycles, representing 44.87 percent of all affected vehicles.
Causes of Road Accidents
The Sector Commander attributed these disturbing figures to persistent recklessness among road users. He identified over-speeding, dangerous driving, route violations, and overloading as the major contributors to the crashes.
Kaura expressed concern over the nonchalant attitude of some motorists who disregard safety regulations, especially during the current rainy season when roads become more hazardous.
"Now we are in the rainy season, drivers must be careful not to over speed because the roads are slippery and wet," Kaura advised.
He further emphasized the importance of vehicle maintenance and proper safety checks before embarking on any journey, adding, "Ensure good visibility by fixing whatever impedes good visibility while driving; if possible drive less at night."
The FRSC's report serves as a stark reminder of the need for increased road safety awareness and strict adherence to traffic regulations in Gombe State and beyond.
Stay updated with the latest news on road safety and other important topics by following BenriNews on our social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and Telegram.