The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to pay the medical bills for Abuja crash victims following a fatal accident near Karu Bridge on the Abuja-Keffi Expressway. The accident, which occurred on Wednesday, involved a truck and multiple vehicles, resulting in several deaths and severe injuries.
Wike Sympathizes with Abuja Crash Victims, Orders Immediate Medical Attention
In a statement released on Thursday, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communication and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, confirmed Wike’s intervention. The FCT Emergency Management Department reported that 10 people died, while 30 others suffered major burns and are currently receiving treatment.
Reacting to the incident, Wike expressed deep sympathy for the victims and immediately directed the Mandate Secretary on Health and Environment, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, to ensure urgent medical care for all injured individuals. On Wike’s directive, Dr. Fasawe personally supervised the treatment of the casualties at Asokoro District Hospital.
Breakdown of Abuja Crash Casualties and Medical Response
Wike disclosed that seven of the 17 casualties admitted were referred to the National Hospital, while six with minor injuries were successfully treated. However, three patients with severe burns, inhalation complications, and crush injuries remain under intensive care. Tragically, one victim with third-degree burns did not survive.
“The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sympathized with Abuja crash victims and offered to pay their medical bills to ensure that treatment continues without delay,” the statement read.
Wike Calls for Stricter Road Safety Compliance to Prevent Future Abuja Crashes
While commiserating with the families of those who lost their lives, Wike described the Abuja crash as avoidable and urged drivers, especially those operating heavy-duty vehicles, to adhere to speed limits and traffic regulations.
He also called on the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other agencies to intensify efforts in enforcing traffic laws to prevent future Abuja crashes.
The Abuja crash raises serious concerns about road safety, and while Wike’s intervention in paying the medical bills of victims is commendable, it begs the question—who will compensate for the lives lost?
