Death toll rises to 13 in Plateau auto crash

Death toll in a road mishap that occurred on Saturday evening while supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were returning to Jos, has risen from seven to 13.

Hospital sources and the spokesman of the party, Yiljap Abraham confirmed to journalists.

The supporters were returning from the PDP campaign flag off and zonal rally held at Pankshin, when a truck conveying them crashed at a slope between Pushit and the Panyam Bridge in Mangu local council.

In a statement, yesterday, by the Director, Directorate of Media and Publicity, Atiku/Okowa, and Mutfwang/Piyo Campaign Council, Plateau State, Mr. Yiljap Abraham, said 32 passengers sustained injuries while 21 have been taken to Dominus Hospital in Mangu. One person is at Nanret Clinic in Mangu and 10 persons are at the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

Two of the injured have been adjudged to be in critical conditions with one undergoing emergency surgery at Dominus Hospital.

The deceased have been deposited at Allah na Kowa Hospital, NICI Dominus Hospital and Mangu Cottage Hospital. The evacuations were coordinated by the Medical Team of the Campaign Council headed by Dr. Juryit , some personal staff of the PDP governorship candidate, Caleb Mutfwang with the aid of sympathisers.

In his initial reaction, Mufwang expressed shock at the tragedy, calling for prayers and support to be extended to the families of the victims and healing for those injured.

He said: “These victims are indeed gallant soldiers of democracy who gave their all. They are heroes of our democracy, and they deserve that we celebrate them while at the same time comforting their families. We assure them that their sacrifices will not go in vain. Their memories must remain ingrained in our minds as true partners of our determined march towards an authentic rescue of our nation and Plateau State.”

MEANWHILE, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State has expressed shock and sadness over the accident.

In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Dr. Makut Macham, the governor commiserated with the families of the victims.

He also sympathised with the PDP family in the state as well as its gubernatorial candidate, Caleb Mutfwang over the sad incident, praying that God will grant eternal rest to those who lost their lives and quick recovery to those who sustained injuries.