Several passengers tragically lost their lives when an Adamawa Express bus plunged into the Namnai River in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State while attempting to cross a collapsed bridge.
The accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, August 17, 2025, leaving residents and commuters in shock, according to security expert Zagazola Makama, who provided insight into the incident via a post on X, highlighting the precarious conditions of the bridge.
According to him, the bus was navigating the broken section of the Namnai Bridge when it lost balance and fell into the river.
He cited an eyewitness who described the scene, noting that the vehicle, en route to Taraba State, toppled into the water in what witnesses described as a sudden and terrifying accident.
The Namnai Bridge collapsed over a year ago and has yet to be rehabilitated, despite repeated promises by successive governments to restore it.
Its continued disrepair has made the route extremely hazardous, posing a constant risk to commuters and motorists who have no alternative route.
“The bridge has been in this condition for far too long, and we have lost lives and property because of negligence.
“Today’s tragedy is a stark reminder that urgent intervention is needed,” a local resident said, expressing frustration at the prolonged inaction by authorities.
Commuters regularly using the Gassol route described the bridge as a persistent danger.
Many noted that buses and other vehicles often attempt risky crossings due to the lack of alternative pathways, leaving travellers vulnerable to accidents.
Details regarding the number of passengers on the Adamawa Express bus and the exact casualty figures were still unclear at the time of reporting.
Rescue efforts were ongoing, but officials have yet to release an official statement confirming the final number of victims or survivors.
This tragic incident has reignited public calls for government intervention to repair the Namnai Bridge and improve safety on critical road networks across Taraba State.
Advocacy groups and safety experts warn that more lives could be lost in preventable accidents without immediate action.