Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger state has expressed shock over the road accident that killed at least 25 persons in the state on Tuesday. The accident involving a trailer was conveying 229 people comprising men, women and children, was said to be heading to Lagos from Sokoto State

Out of the 229 people, 25 were dead while others sustained injuries. The accident, which occurred at the Takalafia village, on the Yawuri expressway, Magama Local council of Niger State was caused by a speed violation, which resulted in the loss of control by the driver.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Bologi Ibrahim, he described the accident as unfortunate and avoidable.

He lamented the insensitivity of some drivers especially those who violate the established traffic rules and end up causing sorrows to people and their loved ones.

Bago, however, cautioned drivers, particularly of trailers and other haulage vehicles to desist from conveying passengers in their vehicles as it poses serious dangers to the lives of the passengers and other road users.

The governor said the government would work closely with relevant agencies both at the local, state and federal levels to ensure that stringent penalties are meted out to traffic rule offenders.

He commiserated with the families of those who died in the crash, as well as prayed to God to forgive their shortcomings and grant quick recovery to those that were injured.

The victims are receiving medical attention at the Kontagora General Hospital, while the dead victims have been deposited in the mortuary of the same hospital.