Six supporters of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have died in a road crash in Lafia, Nasarawa State. The supporters were travelling to Awe Local Government Area for a political programme. The vehicle crashed near the Lafia Flyover on Monday. The campaign organisation said six people were killed. The police reported four deaths. The discrepancy has not been resolved.
Political road crashes are a recurring tragedy in Nigeria. Campaign vehicles are often old, overcrowded and poorly maintained. In 2019, supporters of a political party died in a crash in Kogi State. In 2023, similar incidents were recorded in several states. The pattern reflects weak enforcement of road safety regulations and the pressure to mobilise supporters across long distances. The victims are usually ordinary party members, not the candidates they support.
According to the police, the vehicle suffered brake failure after leaving the SDP secretariat along Jos Road. It collided with a J5 bus. The police spokesperson, Ramhan Nansel, said 29 people were thrown from the vehicle following the impact. One person died at the scene. Three others died in hospital. Eleven people with minor injuries were treated and discharged. Otaru Douglas, Director of Media for the Adamu campaign, confirmed the incident. He said Adamu and his wife were supporting the affected families.
The State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Nawani Aboki, sent condolences. He urged political leaders to educate supporters on responsible road use. He called on agencies to intensify public enlightenment campaigns. The Nasarawa State chapter of the APC also sympathised with the victims. The incident occurred as political parties intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Winners: No winners. The SDP, if it gains sympathy. The police, which responded. Other parties, which may benefit from SDP’s distraction. Losers: The six deceased and their families. The injured, who face recovery. The SDP campaign, which loses supporters and momentum. The political process, which is again disrupted by preventable tragedy.
Bottom Line: Six supporters died going to a political event. The vehicle had brake failure. The police and the campaign disagree on the number of dead. The 2027 campaign has its first martyrs. Road safety enforcement has its latest failure.