Eight people have been confirmed dead in a fatal road crash opposite Unity Bank on Zaria Road in Jos, the Plateau State capital. The accident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, involved a trailer and a bus conveying students of the University of Jos.
Eyewitnesses said the bus had eleven occupants. Seven of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while another died later in the hospital, bringing the total number of fatalities to eight. All the victims were male.
According to witnesses, the bus was speeding and engaged in wrongful overtaking before the driver lost control, resulting in the collision with the trailer. Three survivors are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
The Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Plateau State, Peter Longsan, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Thursday.
“Today, 11th December 2025, FRSC Plateau State Sector Command received a distress call at about 0230 hours, reporting a road traffic crash opposite Unity Bank on Zaria Road, Jos.
“The crash involved two vehicles, a trailer and a bus. Eleven people were on board the bus and were said to be students of the University of Jos. On arrival, seven people were suspected to be dead on the spot, and they were eventually certified dead by a doctor.
“Another victim later died in the hospital, bringing the total number of deceased to eight. Three others are currently receiving treatment at the hospital. All victims were males,” Longsan said.
Reacting to the tragedy, the FRSC Sector Commander in Plateau State, Olajide Mogaji, urged motorists to avoid night journeys, overspeeding, dangerous overtaking, drunk driving, and driving while fatigued—practices he described as major contributors to fatal crashes.
“The government needs you alive and wants you to enjoy life to the fullest this festive season and beyond,” Mogaji said.
He further advised the public to call the FRSC toll-free emergency line, 122, to report road crashes or any other emergencies.
Following the tragedy, the Jos University Dental Students Association (JUDENSA) issued a condolence message expressing deep sorrow over the loss. According to the statement signed by the JUDENSA Executives, among the deceased were the President of the National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) and the President of the Social Sciences Students’ Association (SOSSA).
“Their dedication, passion, and service to the student community will never be forgotten,” the message read.
JUDENSA also extended prayers to the injured students, wishing them a speedy and complete recovery.
“May the souls of our departed brothers and sisters rest in perfect peace, and may God grant their families, friends, and the entire Josite community the strength to bear this painful moment,” the association stated.
Reacting separately, the FRSC Sector Commander in Plateau State, Olajide Mogaji, cautioned motorists against night trips, excessive speed, dangerous driving, and driving when fatigued, noting that such practices remain major contributors to road fatalities.
“The government needs you alive and wants you to enjoy life to the fullest this festive season and beyond,” he said, urging the public to make use of the FRSC toll-free line, 122, for emergencies.
