The University of Jos community has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of eight students in a tragic accident that occurred on Saturday morning along the Zaria Road Stadium axis in Jos, Plateau State. The students were returning from a welcome event organized for members of the National Association of Plateau State Students (NAPSS) when the unfortunate incident happened.
According to eyewitness accounts, two buses were conveying the students back to campus when one of them attempted to overtake the other. In the process, a trailer reportedly obstructed the lane. The driver of the first bus swerved in an effort to avoid a collision but lost control, leading the vehicle to crash into an electric pole. The impact resulted in the death of eight students on board, including the student leader, Datong Magnus Miakop.
The second bus, which was conveying female students, arrived safely without any incident.
News of the accident spread quickly across the university, casting a cloud of grief over students and staff. Many described the deceased as vibrant young people full of promise, whose lives were cut short at a moment meant to celebrate unity and new beginnings. Classmates gathered in small groups across hostels and faculties, consoling one another as the reality of the tragedy began to sink in.
Authorities from the university and NAPSS have expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as a heartbreaking blow not only to the students’ families but to the entire Plateau State student community. They also assured that investigations would be carried out to understand the circumstances that led to the accident.
As families, friends, and colleagues begin to grapple with the painful loss, the University of Jos has urged the public to keep the bereaved families in their thoughts during this difficult time.
