A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of two students from Borno State University.
The fatal crash occurred on Wednesday when a speeding trailer collided with the university’s school bus, which was transporting 30 students.
Eyewitnesses reported that the trailer rammed into the bus without warning, instantly killing two students.
Three other students sustained critical injuries in the crash, while fifteen more were taken to the hospital for treatment.
Miraculously, ten students escaped without any physical injuries, though many were visibly shaken.
The accident has plunged the university community into mourning, with staff and students grieving the loss of their colleagues.
A university spokesperson, Umar Garkuwa, confirmed the tragic incident in a statement.
He revealed that the injured students were rushed to Umaru Shehu Hospital and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) for urgent medical attention.
“The university’s vice chancellor and the dean of student affairs are personally ensuring the victims receive the best care possible,” Garkuwa stated.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments following the collision.
One student who survived the crash described the scene as “chaotic and terrifying.”
“I can’t believe two of our friends are gone. It could have been any of us,” the student, who preferred to remain anonymous, said through tears.
The trailer’s driver, according to preliminary reports, was allegedly speeding before losing control of the vehicle.
Police officials at the scene have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the accident.
This tragic incident has sparked concerns about road safety in the region, particularly involving heavy-duty vehicles.
Many students and parents have expressed anger over what they call “reckless driving” by trailer operators on highways.
“How many more lives must we lose before authorities act?” a visibly frustrated parent asked during a gathering outside the university gates.
Road safety experts have repeatedly warned against overspeeding by trailers, especially on routes frequently used by schools and other vulnerable groups.
Borno State University, located in Maiduguri, is one of the leading higher institutions in the state, attracting students from across the region.
The loss of two young lives has cast a dark shadow over the university’s community.
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed deep sadness over the incident.
In a statement issued by his office, the governor extended condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged to support the injured.
“This is a painful loss not just for the families but for the entire state. We will ensure those injured receive the necessary care,” the statement read.
The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter regulations on commercial trailers and heavy-duty vehicles.
A student leader at the university called for immediate government intervention to prevent similar occurrences.
“This is not the first time trailers have caused accidents here. Enough is enough,” he declared during a press conference.
Borno State Police Command has assured the public that the driver of the trailer will be held accountable if found guilty of negligence.
Road accidents involving trailers remain a significant issue in Nigeria, contributing to thousands of fatalities annually.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), overspeeding and poor vehicle maintenance are leading causes of such crashes.
Many Nigerians are now demanding stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better road infrastructure to reduce accidents.
As the affected families prepare to bury their loved ones, the university community is left grappling with the emotional aftermath of this devastating tragedy.
The names of the deceased students have not yet been released, pending notification of their families.
