Kaduna Tragedy: Speeding Car Kills 8 Members of One Family

Eight members of the same extended family lost their lives in a devastating road accident along the Kaduna-Zaria highway when a speeding vehicle veered off the rain-slicked road and plowed into a group of pedestrians.

The victims, who had just finished celebrating the holiday, were waiting by the roadside for transportation when the tragedy struck on the evening of Monday, June 9, 2025.

"They were just standing there," recalled a heartbroken Malam Jamilu Usman Mai Yadi, a resident of Tudun Wada and head of the bereaved family. “My wife, two sons, her sisters, and other relatives — all gone.”

In total, eight family members were killed, with two others critically injured and still receiving treatment. Among the deceased were his wife Khadija Umar, sons Sadiq and Muhammad, and multiple in-laws.

The victims were reportedly visiting their grandmother when they were hit. “They weren’t even on the road,” Mai Yadi explained. “That car came out of nowhere.”

Adding to the tragedy, cleric Sulaiman Abdulkadir Mai Shinkafa lost his pregnant wife, Zainab Muhammad, who was expecting twins, and their six-year-old son, Khalid. “Her body was crushed. My son’s bones were shattered. We used planks to collect what was left,” he said tearfully.

Police Confirm Crash, Launch Investigation

Kaduna police have confirmed the incident and launched a full investigation. According to the State Command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, the vehicle involved was a Mercedes GLK Jeep driven by 27-year-old Aliyu Umar of Rigachikun, who also died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The accident occurred near the Jalo Campaign Office, and initial findings suggest the driver lost control due to excessive speed on a wet road.

Those killed include:

Sadiq Jamilu

Muhd Jamilu

Abdurrahman Abubakar

Aliyu Ukasha

Khadija Jamilu

Zainab Umar

Aisha Abubakar

Aliyu Umar (driver)

Three others—Nana Abubakar, Ibrahim Abubakar, and a man identified only as Musa—are being treated at a military hospital.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Rabiu Muhammad, called the crash “deeply sorrowful” and promised a thorough and impartial investigation. “No stone will be left unturned,” he assured.

FRSC: Over-speeding on Wet Road to Blame

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) corroborated that the crash was due to over-speeding and dangerous road conditions caused by rain. Sector Commander Tijjani Iliyasu confirmed that the vehicle lost control and ran into the group of pedestrians.

By the time emergency services arrived, those inside the vehicle had fled the scene, except for the driver who later died from injuries.

Grief in the Community

The Barakallahu community remains in mourning, with once-busy streets now quiet. Local Imam Rabiu offered prayers for the deceased, saying, “Eight souls from one family — it’s unimaginable.”

Another resident, Adam, said, “No one should ever have to bury eight people in one day.”

Family Awaits Justice

Discussions are underway between the victims’ families and representatives from the late driver’s side regarding possible compensation. Malam Mai Yadi says no agreement has been reached yet.

“All we want is justice. Negotiations are ongoing, and we’ll meet again next week,” he said.

Daily Trust

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