The death toll from Friday’s multiple-vehicle crash along the Jos-Abuja highway in Plateau State has risen to 23, following the recovery of three additional bodies from the scene.
The accident occurred around Hawan Kibo, a steep and winding section of the highway, and involved four vehicles.
Those involved included a Howo Sino Truck, a Toyota Corolla and a Toyota Hummer bus operated by Yankari Express.
At least 20 people were initially confirmed dead after the crash, while several others sustained injuries.
The accident reportedly occurred at about 6pm when the truck allegedly lost control while descending the steep section of the road.
Eyewitnesses attributed the crash to suspected brake failure, saying the truck rammed into other vehicles after losing control.
The impact left several victims trapped inside the affected vehicles, while injured persons were taken to nearby health facilities for treatment.
Three additional bodies were later recovered from a bush around the accident scene, bringing the confirmed death toll to 23.
Residents described the Hawan Kibo section of the highway as particularly dangerous because of its steep bends and rocky terrain.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over road safety along the Jos-Abuja corridor, one of the major routes linking Plateau State with Abuja.
Road crashes remain a major concern across Nigeria, with vehicle defects, speeding, poor road conditions and other factors frequently contributing to fatal accidents.
Authorities are expected to continue investigations into the immediate cause of the Plateau crash and assess the safety of the affected section of the highway.
