Train kills tricycle rider, passenger in Plateau

A tragic accident involving a train and a tricycle occurred on Wednesday at the Phototek Junction in the Abattoir community, Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State, resulting in the deaths of the tricycle driver and a passenger.

Some eyewitnesses who spoke with our correspondent described the scene of the accident as “harrowing.” One of them, Mary Philip, recounted, “The train was blaring its horn, but despite the loud warning and repeated honking, the tricycle rider attempted to speed across the railway track.”

Philip lamented the tragic loss of life, stating, “Tragically, the tricycle was struck, which claimed the lives of the driver and a passenger. It’s rather unfortunate.”

Another eyewitness, Mohammed Ibrahim, corroborated Philip’s account, saying, “The incident occurred at 11 am on Wednesday when the train coming from Bukuru and heading to Jos suddenly crushed the tricycle, instantly killing two persons at the scene, while two women who were passengers were also injured.”

Adam Abdullahi, the spokesperson for the Jos Railway Station confirmed the accident, attributing the cause to the tricycle rider’s refusal to stop despite warnings.

Read also: NRC arrests two suspects over Warri-Itakpe train derailment, restores full operations

“What happened was that at the level crossing, our official stopped him, but he refused to stop. The train’s speed eventually caught the tricycle, causing the accident,” he stated.

The remains of the deceased were later evacuated from the scene, leaving behind a trail of grief and sorrow for the families and loved ones of the victims.

Meanwhile, the Plateau State Ministry of Transport has expressed deep sympathy with the families of the victims of the unfortunate railway accident.

Davou Gyang, the commissioner for Transport described the incident as a tragic and painful reminder of the need for strict adherence to traffic rules and safety measures around rail crossings.

Gyang, on behalf of the Ministry, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the mishap.

“We mourn with the families affected by this sad event. It is indeed a painful loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. This tragedy underscores the need for every road user to exercise caution and patience, especially around railway intersections,” the commissioner stated.

He assured that the Ministry is working closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and relevant agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and prevent future occurrences.

The commissioner further appealed to motorists, tricycle operators, and pedestrians to always observe safety signs and signals at railway crossings, warning that disregard for such regulations endangers lives.

Gyang reaffirmed the commitment of the Plateau State Government to enhancing transportation safety through effective public education, enforcement of traffic laws, and improvement of safety infrastructure across the state.