Plateau Auto Crash Claims 20 Lives at Hawan Kibo as FRSC Cites Brake Failure

At least 20 people have reportedly died in a fatal road crash at Hawan Kibo in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, with brake failure identified as the suspected cause of the accident.

The crash occurred along the Hawan Kibo section of the Jos–Akwanga highway, a mountainous corridor that has recorded several serious road crashes over the years. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) maintains a roadside clinic and emergency response facility at Hawan Kibo, reflecting the location’s importance to road safety operations.

Initial information surrounding the latest incident indicates that the vehicle lost braking control, resulting in the fatal crash. However, details concerning the exact type of vehicle involved, the identities of the victims and the circumstances immediately preceding the collision require confirmation from the relevant authorities.

Hawan Kibo has previously witnessed major crashes attributed to vehicle mechanical failure and difficult road conditions. In October 2024, an 18-seater bus travelling from Adamawa towards Abuja was involved in a fatal crash at the location. Reports at the time said the bus suffered brake failure before colliding with a stationary trailer, with 19 people confirmed dead.

The location has also recorded other deadly incidents. In December 2023, a truck carrying grain sacks and passengers crashed at Hawan Kibo after reportedly suffering brake failure, leaving 12 people dead and dozens injured. The FRSC subsequently warned against transporting passengers in vehicles designed primarily to carry goods.

The recurring crashes have renewed attention on vehicle roadworthiness, brake maintenance, driver safety and the physical condition of major highways through Plateau State. Research examining the Hawan Kibo crash corridor has identified brake failure, speeding, fatigue, wrongful overtaking and loss of control among the factors associated with road crashes along the corridor.

Obaland magazine understands that the reported 20-death toll in the latest incident should be treated in accordance with the most recent official confirmation available from the FRSC and other emergency authorities, particularly as casualty figures can change during rescue and hospital operations.

Road users travelling through the Hawan Kibo corridor are advised to exercise heightened caution, particularly when descending steep sections of the highway. Regular inspection of braking systems, tyres and other critical vehicle components remains essential to reducing the risk of mechanical-failure crashes.

The incident adds to continuing concerns over road safety in Plateau State and highlights the importance of timely emergency response, strict vehicle inspection and sustained enforcement of roadworthiness standards.

At least 20 people have reportedly died in a road crash at Hawan Kibo, Riyom LGA of Plateau State, with brake failure identified as the suspected cause.