The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department has confirmed that 10 people have died following the truck explosion near Karu Bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway on Wednesday.
FEMD’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, provided the latest figures in a statement on Thursday afternoon.
The Acting Director-General of the department, Abdulrahman Mohammed, had earlier disclosed that eight fatalities had been recorded as of Thursday morning, with five victims confirmed dead at the scene and four others burned beyond recognition.
“Five people were taken dead from the scene yesterday. Out of the people that were injured, one died, making six. Then this morning, when I asked my people to go round, they discovered that two had already died again, making eight,” Mohammed explained.
However, Isa later clarified that the Head of Forecasting, Response, and Mitigation at FEMD, Mark Nyam, reported that the final death toll had risen to 10.
“Eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one at the Asokoro District Hospital Morgue, and another at the National Hospital,” Isa stated.
She further revealed that more than 30 people sustained severe burns and are receiving treatment at various medical facilities, including Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, and Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja.
The explosion also destroyed at least 10 vehicles.
Following a visit to the site, FEMD officials urged motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
“The FEMD boss has advised motorists to observe traffic rules and regulations, avoid reckless driving, dangerous overtaking, and ensure proper vehicle maintenance,” Isa added.
She also reminded residents to use the emergency toll-free number, 112, in case of any urgent situation.
