Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has announced plans to ban the movement of heavy-duty trucks within Maiduguri’s city center.
This decision comes after a heartbreaking accident involving a trailer and a school bus claimed the lives of two students and left many others injured.
The tragic incident occurred along the Maiduguri-Damaturu Road as students from Borno State University were returning home after completing their examinations.
A statement from Dauda Iliya, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, conveyed Zulum’s commitment to ensuring such accidents do not happen again.
“I have instructed the Ministry of Works to expedite the completion of the trailer park,” the governor stated.
“Once operational, trailers will no longer be permitted into the city center. This move aims to reduce accidents and protect lives within the Maiduguri metropolis.”
The governor also promised to take deliberate and decisive actions to prevent future occurrences of such tragic events.
State Government to Bear Medical Costs
Governor Zulum expressed his deep condolences to the families of the victims, the management, and staff of Borno State University.
“I am deeply touched by this tragic accident involving students. My thoughts are with the families and the university community during this painful time,” he said.
He further assured the public that the state government would cover all medical expenses for the injured students currently receiving treatment.
“We will spare no effort in ensuring that those injured are given the best care and support needed to recover fully,” Zulum added.
Plan to Relocate Trailers Outside City Center
Zulum’s administration had previously initiated plans to build a trailer park outside Maiduguri to reduce the entry of heavy-duty vehicles into the metropolis.
The governor stressed that the completion of this trailer park is now a top priority for the government.
This decision underscores the urgent need to address the risks posed by the unchecked movement of trailers and other heavy vehicles in Maiduguri.
“We will take deliberate steps to create safer roads and minimize accidents caused by these large vehicles,” Zulum declared.
Emotional Reactions to the Tragedy
The news of the accident has sparked widespread grief and anger in the community.
Parents and guardians of the affected students expressed their sorrow and called on the government to take swift action to improve road safety.
“This could have been avoided,” said one parent. “Our children deserve better protection as they go about their education.”
Residents also called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to prevent reckless driving, particularly by trailers and other heavy vehicles.
Governor Zulum to Visit Victims
In a show of compassion and solidarity, Zulum pledged to personally visit the injured students in the hospital.
“I will ensure that their needs are met and that their families are not left to bear this burden alone,” the governor affirmed.
His promise has been welcomed by many, who see it as a sign of his commitment to addressing the tragedy and providing support to those affected.
