Heartbreaking Road Accident in Katsina Claims 18 Lives Including Newlyweds
A tragic road accident has plunged Katsina State into mourning after a devastating collision claimed the lives of eighteen people, including a newly married couple who had just celebrated their wedding. The fatal incident occurred along the Dutsinma–Karofi–Radda Road, casting a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion.
Details of the Catastrophic Collision
The accident took place at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, when two commercial Golf vehicles traveling from opposite directions lost control and collided head-on. According to eyewitness accounts and sources familiar with the incident, one vehicle was transporting wedding guests from Dutsinma, while the other was carrying passengers coming from Kano.
The impact of the collision was so severe that both vehicles caught fire immediately, resulting in three passengers suffering severe burns. Emergency responders worked tirelessly at the scene, but the devastation proved overwhelming for many involved.
Newlyweds Among the Victims
Among those confirmed deceased were the groom, his bride, and several of their close friends who had been celebrating with them. The victims were transported to General Hospital in Dutsinma, where medical personnel confirmed the tragic loss of life.
Zakari Haradu Aboro, a friend of the groom who witnessed the aftermath, shared his heartbreaking account of the events. "I am deeply saddened and heartbroken to share this tragic news that I witnessed firsthand in Katsina State," he stated. "I was among the groom's friends celebrating the wedding Fatiha of a friend in Dutsinma."
Moments of Celebration Turned to Tragedy
Aboro described how the celebration turned to horror within minutes. "Just minutes after we left the bride's house, heading for Kafin Soli, we received a devastating phone call," he recalled. "An anonymous voice informed us that the owner of the phone had died in a terrible accident."
As panic set in among the wedding party, they soon realized the victim was one of their own—a fellow friend of the groom. Before they could even reach the accident scene, news had already spread through the community about the fatal collision on the Dutsinma-Kafin Soli road.
"Sixteen people lost their lives instantly, including the groom and the bride," Aboro confirmed. "This is a profoundly sad day. My deepest condolences go out to all the families and friends affected. May Allah grant them patience, comfort, and strength through this immense grief."
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has left the local community reeling, with families and friends struggling to comprehend the sudden loss of loved ones. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers on Nigerian roads and the fragility of life during what should be moments of celebration.
Authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision, while the community comes together to support those affected by this unimaginable loss.
