Plateau Road Crash: 21 Dead After Hawan Kibo Highway Collision
The death toll from a devastating road crash along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route in Plateau State has risen to 21, after a multiple-vehicle collision on Friday evening.
The crash occurred in the Hawan Kibo area of Riyom Local Government Area, a difficult stretch of highway where vehicles descend a steep section of road.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) initially confirmed that 20 people had died in the crash. Following a further assessment of the scene on Saturday, the death toll rose to 21.
What happened at Hawan Kibo?
The crash happened on Friday, October 2, along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route.
FRSC reports indicate that the collision involved multiple vehicles, including a truck, a commercial bus and a motorcycle.
Preliminary findings pointed to brake failure and loss of control as the likely causes of the crash.
The truck reportedly lost control while travelling down the hilly section of the road before colliding with other vehicles.
The impact caused significant damage and left several people trapped or injured.
How many people died in the Plateau crash?
The initial confirmed death toll was 20.
FRSC officials later visited the crash scene to assess the extent of the incident, after which the reported death toll increased to 21.
An earlier FRSC statement said 25 people were involved in the crash, with five injured and 20 confirmed dead at that stage. The injured victims were taken to Ryom General Hospital and Vom Christian Hospital, while the bodies of those who died were deposited at the Jos University Teaching Hospital mortuary.
Because rescue and recovery operations were still ongoing when some of the first reports were filed, casualty figures changed as authorities assessed the scene.
What caused the Hawan Kibo road crash?
FRSC officials identified brake failure and the subsequent loss of control as the likely cause.
The Sector Commander of FRSC in Plateau State, Corps Commander Adelaja Ogungbemi, said the vehicle suffered brake failure while descending the hill.
FRSC has also ordered further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The agency has warned motorists, particularly operators of commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, to pay close attention to vehicle maintenance and braking systems.
Where did the accident happen?
The crash occurred around Hawan Kibo in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route.
FRSC’s more detailed account placed the crash shortly after Sopp Water Falls.
The Hawan Kibo section is known for its hilly terrain, making control of heavy vehicles particularly important when travelling downhill.
Rescue operation and emergency response
Emergency responders were deployed to the scene following the crash.
FRSC personnel worked to evacuate injured victims, recover those who died and clear the highway.
The agency said the obstruction caused by the crash was eventually cleared and traffic restored along the affected section of the road.
The latest assessment of the scene was carried out by senior FRSC officials, including the Plateau Sector Commander and the Zonal Commanding Officer.
FRSC issues road safety warning
Following the tragedy, FRSC officials urged motorists to take vehicle maintenance seriously.
Brake systems are particularly important for trucks and other heavy vehicles travelling through steep or winding sections of highway.
FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed directed investigators to establish the full circumstances surrounding the crash, with particular attention to the reported brake failure and loss of control.
He also expressed condolences to the families and friends of those who died.
Why the Hawan Kibo crash is raising concern
The incident has renewed attention on road safety along the Hawan Kibo corridor.
A mechanical failure on a steep descent can quickly become catastrophic, particularly when a heavy vehicle loses control near other road users.
The latest crash is therefore likely to intensify calls for regular vehicle inspections, better maintenance and greater caution by drivers travelling through difficult sections of the highway.
Latest update on the Plateau road crash
As of the latest available reports on October 3, 21 people have died following the Hawan Kibo road crash.
FRSC officials have continued to assess the incident and investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The preliminary cause remains brake failure followed by loss of control, although the investigation is expected to establish the full circumstances of the crash.
Plateau Road Crash FAQs
How many people died in the Plateau road crash?
The latest reported death toll is 21, according to the latest assessment reported by the Federal Road Safety Corps.
Where did the Plateau accident happen?
The crash happened around Hawan Kibo in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, along the Hawan Kibo–Jos route.
What caused the Hawan Kibo accident?
FRSC’s preliminary findings identified brake failure and loss of control as the likely causes.
When did the Plateau road crash happen?
The crash occurred on Friday, October 2, 2026.
Were there survivors?
Yes. Earlier FRSC reports said five people were injured and taken to hospitals for treatment. The casualty figures were later updated after further assessment of the scene.
Is the Hawan Kibo road open?
FRSC reported that rescue personnel cleared the obstruction caused by the crash and restored the affected section of the highway to traffic.
Last updated: October 3, 2026
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