Over 70 lives have been lost in Gombe State, Nigeria, during the first half of 2025, as road traffic crashes surged across the region, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). State officials reported 171 collisions between January and June, with reckless driving and inadequate safety measures cited as primary culprits.
Newly released data from the Gombe FRSC Sector Command reveals 1,156 individuals were directly affected by these accidents. Of these, 72 fatalities were recorded, alongside 641 individuals sustaining injuries and 443 escaping physically unharmed. Sector Commander Felix Kaura, addressing journalists on Wednesday, emphasized the severity of the statistics: “Nearly 6% of those involved in crashes lost their lives, while over 55% suffered injuries. These figures reflect a pressing public safety concern.”
A closer analysis shows vulnerable road users bore significant risks. Out of 234 vehicles involved in the accidents, 105—or 45%—were bicycles or tricycles, modes of transport commonly used for short-distance commuting in the region. Monthly fatality rates fluctuated sharply, with January and April each witnessing 16 deaths, while March and May saw five fatalities apiece.
Kaura attributed the crisis to widespread traffic violations, including speeding, dangerous overtaking, route breaches, and vehicle overloading. He criticized the disregard for safety protocols among drivers, stressing that preventable behaviors are costing lives. With heavy rains now exacerbating road hazards, authorities have urged heightened caution. “Roads become treacherous during the rainy season. Drivers must reduce speed, ensure vehicles are well-maintained, and prioritize visibility,” Kaura stated. He advised motorists to avoid nighttime travel where possible and address mechanical defects before journeys.
The FRSC’s warning aligns with broader concerns about road safety in Nigeria, where poor infrastructure, lax enforcement, and overcrowded vehicles contribute to high accident rates. Gombe’s midyear data underscores a pattern seen across many regions: transport operators and commuters using open-access vehicles like tricycles face disproportionate risks due to limited structural protections.
As rainfall intensifies, the agency has pledged increased patrols and public awareness campaigns. However, Kaura noted that lasting change requires collective responsibility: “Safety is not the FRSC’s duty alone. Every road user must adopt discipline and caution to prevent further tragedies.” The statistics serve as a stark reminder of the human toll tied to traffic negligence—a challenge demanding urgent, sustained action.
