The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the fatal motor accident that occurred on Tuesday evening at Karu Bridge, Abuja.
Wike, who described the accident as avoidable, offered to cover the medical expenses of those injured. He also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and directed the continuation of treatment for the survivors.
Speaking through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Wike stated that upon receiving news of the accident, he immediately directed the Mandate Secretary for Health and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, to oversee the treatment of victims.
“On my directive, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe was at Asokoro District Hospital until this morning, working alongside medical personnel to attend to the 17 casualties brought in,” Wike said.
He further revealed that after initial stabilization: Seven casualties were referred to the National Hospital for advanced care; Six patients with minor injuries were successfully treated; and Three victims with severe burns and crush injuries remain in critical condition.
One patient with third-degree burns sadly passed away while receiving treatment.
The Minister urged all road users, particularly heavy-duty vehicle drivers, to drive cautiously and adhere to speed limits to prevent further tragedies.
He also called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other regulatory agencies to enforce stricter compliance with traffic rules to ensure road safety.
This follows an earlier accident at the same Karu Bridge, reinforcing concerns about reckless driving and poor vehicle maintenance.