Jigawa, Nigeria — A devastating bus fire in Gwaram Local Government Area has claimed four lives, including three children, and left ten others injured.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday around 4 p.m. when a Hummer bus carrying 44 passengers from Zaki, Bauchi State, to Gwaram erupted in flames near Government Girls Unity Secondary School.
Police spokesperson, SP Lawan Shiisu, confirmed that the fire was triggered when a mattress tied to the back of the vehicle made contact with the exhaust pipe, igniting a deadly blaze.
Among the casualties were a 40-year-old woman and three children aged five, three, and ten, all burnt beyond recognition.
Emergency responders swiftly transported ten injured victims to Gwaram Cottage Hospital for treatment, while other passengers were safely evacuated. The remains of the deceased were handed over to their families for burial.
Authorities have urged motorists, especially commercial drivers, to avoid overloading, excessive speeding, and to conduct regular vehicle inspections to prevent similar tragedies.
The statement concluded with a renewed call for stricter adherence to safety regulations to safeguard lives on Nigerian roads.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | February 24, 2025.