A devastating road traffic accident in the early hours of Sunday has resulted in the death of five persons and left thirteen others with injuries in Plateau State.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The tragic event occurred at the Zangzat Roundabout in Langtang, located within the Langtang North Local Government Area. According to reports, the accident involved a trailer that was transporting marketers from Shendam to the state capital, Jos. The crash happened at approximately 3 a.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Preliminary investigations point to speeding and overloading as the primary causes of the accident. The vehicle involved, a trailer registered in Plateau State with the plate number JJN 383 YZ, was carrying a load beyond its safe capacity while moving at high speed.
Official Response and Victim Care
The Executive Chairman of Langtang North Local Government, Hon. Pirfa Jingfa Tyem, confirmed the incident in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Kum Precious Yakubu. Tyem expressed deep concern upon receiving the report and immediately dispatched a council team to the scene.
"The team was directed to visit the accident scene and the hospital to assess the situation, sympathise with the victims, and ascertain their immediate needs," the statement read. All injured victims are currently receiving medical treatment at the General Hospital in Langtang.
Calls for Enhanced Road Safety Measures
The Chairman extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost loved ones and wished the injured a swift recovery. He emphasized that this unfortunate incident underscores the grave dangers of reckless driving and ignoring road safety regulations.
In light of the tragedy, the Langtang North Local Government Council has issued a strong appeal to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). They urged the corps to sustain and intensify road safety sensitization and enforcement campaigns, particularly at markets, motor parks, and major transit routes within the council area.
The council also called on all road users—including drivers, transporters, marketers, and commuters—to strictly adhere to speed limits, avoid overloading vehicles, and always prioritize safety. The local government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with relevant agencies to safeguard lives and promote road safety across the area.