JOS, Nigeria (FN) — Plateau State officials and residents are mourning the victims of a fatal railway accident that occurred Wednesday morning in Jos South, where a passenger train collided with a commercial tricycle, killing two people and injuring two others.
The incident took place at Phototek Junction in the Abattoir community. Witnesses said the train, traveling from Bukuru to Jos, repeatedly sounded its horn before striking the tricycle, which attempted to cross the tracks despite warnings.
Local authorities confirmed that the tricycle rider and one passenger died instantly, while two other passengers were hospitalized with serious injuries. A railway crossing guard reportedly tried to stop the tricycle, but the operator refused to yield.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed condolences to the victims’ families and called for increased public awareness around railway safety. “This loss is painful and preventable,” he said. “We must do more to protect lives.”
The accident has reignited concerns over Nigeria’s railway infrastructure and safety protocols. Residents in Jos South have called for better signage, barriers, and enforcement at crossings to prevent future tragedies.
Similar incidents have occurred across Nigeria in recent years. In Lagos, a train collided with a staff bus in 2023, killing six. In Ogun State, a motorcycle rider was crushed by a train in 2022. Other fatal collisions have been reported in Kano and Kaduna.
Transport safety advocates say many crossings lack automated gates or trained personnel, leaving road users vulnerable. They are urging the federal government to invest in modern infrastructure and launch public education campaigns.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation said it would investigate the Jos accident and review safety measures at key intersections. Officials also pledged support for the victims’ families.
