Three arrested as nine die in Benue road crash

Three members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Benue State have been arrested by the police after a multi-vehicle collision claimed nine lives along the Katsina-Ala highway.

PUNCH Metro learnt on Sunday, through a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, that the fatal accident occurred on Friday night after the arrested individuals allegedly obstructed the highway.

According to Edet, the obstruction created by the suspects caused a heavy gridlock, which ultimately led to the crash.

She stated, “The Benue State Police Command strongly warns against the unlawful obstruction of public highways, following a tragic multiple motor vehicle accident that claimed nine lives and left several others injured on 28th November, 2025, along Katsina-Ala highway.

“The accident, which occurred at about 2015hrs, involved a MAN diesel truck with registration number TARABA ARD 967XA and multiple vehicles, after members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers Katsina-Ala Branch allegedly blocked the highway, causing severe traffic disruption that triggered the fatal crash.

“Victims were rushed to Toro Hospital, Katsina-Ala for treatment, while deceased bodies were deposited at the General Hospital.”

Edet identified the arrested suspects as the Chairman of the Katsina-Ala NURTW Branch, Aja Vanger, and two members, Stephen Kahungur and Saater Vihiga, adding that “they will be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation.”

She further warned that blocking highways constitutes a criminal offence that threatens public safety.

“Individuals or groups involved in such acts will face the full wrath of the law.

“The Benue State Police Command urges all road users and transport operators to prioritise safety, obey traffic regulations, and avoid actions that endanger lives.

“While the command empathises with affected families, it will enforce the law firmly to prevent future tragedies,” Edet concluded.

This is not the first time a reckless act has cost lives on the road.

PUNCH Metro reported on November 14 that a truck driver’s assistant was crushed to death while attempting to stabilise a moving truck by placing a wooden plank beneath its tyres in the Ogolonto area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

The incident led to the arrest of the truck driver by officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, who were on a 24-hour night patrol, before handing him over to the police.