By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, ABUJA
A fatal explosion in Abuja has claimed the lives of at least 20 people after two trucks collided near Karu Bridge along the Abuja Expressway on Wednesday evening. The incident, which occurred around 6 p.m., also left several vehicles burnt beyond recognition.
Eyewitnesses reported that a Dangote truck transporting cement lost its brakes near the Kugbo axis and rammed into a construction truck, dragging multiple vehicles and motorcycles into the crash. The impact triggered a series of explosions from six CNG-powered cylinders, leading to a massive inferno.
A resident, Musa Ibrahim, who narrowly escaped, described the scene as horrifying. “I was just a few meters away when I heard the explosion. People were screaming and running, but some were trapped. It was a nightmare,” he said.
Emergency responders, including the fire service and security agencies, worked tirelessly to contain the flames and clear the wreckage. However, several charred bodies were seen lying by the roadside as authorities began recovery efforts.
A senior official from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the casualties and urged motorists to exercise caution. “This is a tragic reminder of the importance of vehicle maintenance and road safety. We are working with other agencies to manage the situation,” he stated.
As rescue operations continue, authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the accident.