At least eight students from the University of Jos in Plateau State, Nigeria, were killed when a trailer collided with a bus carrying them along Zaria Road in Jos North Local Government Area. The crash occurred in the early hours of Thursday, December 11, 2025.
The bus was transporting 11 students when the collision happened opposite Unity Bank near Farin Gada bridge around 2:00 am. Seven students died on the spot, while an eighth victim succumbed to injuries at the hospital. Three others are receiving treatment for their injuries. All victims were males, and the students were returning from a welcome-back party for returning students.
Peter Longsan, public education officer for the Federal Road Safety Corps in Plateau State, confirmed the incident. The FRSC received a distress call at about 0230 hours reporting the road traffic crash. The collision involved two vehicles—a trailer and the student bus.
“The crash involved two vehicles, a trailer and a bus. Eleven people were on board the bus and were said to be students of the University of Jos. On arrival, seven people were suspected to be dead on the spot, and they were eventually certified dead by a doctor,” Longsan stated. “Another victim later died in the hospital, bringing the total number of deceased to eight. Three others are currently receiving treatment at the hospital. All victims were males.”
Eyewitness accounts indicated the bus was speeding and engaged in wrongful overtaking, which caused the driver to lose control. The loss of control led to the collision with the trailer. Following the impact, the bus hit an electric pole before coming to rest. Two buses had been hired for the trip, with students traveling together from the night outing.
The trailer driver fled the scene following the accident. A detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing.
Among those killed were several student leaders, including final year students from various faculties. The victims represented a cross-section of the university community, and their deaths have left the institution in mourning.
Prof. Tanko Ishaya, vice-chancellor of the University of Jos, addressed the tragedy during a press briefing at the university. He expressed profound sadness over the loss and sympathized with the families of the deceased. The briefing occurred as the university prepared for its combined 35th and 36th convocation ceremonies.
Olajide Mogaji, sector commander of the FRSC Plateau command, urged motorists to exercise greater caution on the roads. He called on drivers to avoid night trips, excessive speed, dangerous driving, and driving under the influence or while fatigued.
“The government needs you alive and wants you to enjoy life to the fullest this festive season and beyond,” Mogaji said, emphasizing that these factors represent major causes of fatalities in road crashes.
The FRSC urged members of the public to call the toll-free emergency number 122 to report crashes or other road emergencies.
Joyce Ramnap, commissioner for Information and Communication for Plateau State, issued a statement on behalf of the government expressing heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased students and the University of Jos community. The state government described the loss as devastating not only to the families but to the entire state.
The government emphasized that the young people represented hope, potential, and the bright future of Plateau State. Officials pledged to offer necessary support to affected families as they navigate this difficult time.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang expressed profound shock upon receiving news of the tragedy. The governor’s office issued a statement conveying condolences and standing with all affected families during this period of grief.
The Students’ Union Government at the university expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating the incident has left a void in the university community. Union officials described the students who lost their lives as bright souls whose memories will be cherished forever. The SUG urged students to remain calm and united during this trying time.
Among the deceased were Comrade Miapkop Magnus and Angelo Gyang Gokyo, who held leadership positions within student associations at the university. Family members of the victims expressed shock at the sudden loss.
Dominic Dantala, one of the survivors, recounted the events leading to the crash. He described how the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle but fell back into its lane when the maneuver proved impossible. A trailer coming from behind then struck their bus, causing the catastrophic accident.
The incident has raised renewed concerns about road safety in Nigeria, particularly regarding speeding, reckless driving, and the enforcement of traffic regulations. The deaths underscore the ongoing challenges faced by students and other road users in the region.
The University of Jos community continues to mourn the loss as investigations proceed. Officials have called for prayers and unity as families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest.
