Yobe Market was thrown into mourning on Tuesday afternoon when a speeding commercial bus lost control and rammed into the central entrance of the Potiskum market, killing five people instantly, including a pregnant woman. The bus, reportedly heading to Damaturu from Bauchi, veered off the main road and drove directly into a section of the market crowded with traders and shoppers.
Yobe Market, known for its daily influx of buyers and sellers from within and outside the state, became a scene of chaos and horror as the vehicle crushed stalls, wares, and people. Witnesses described a horrifying moment as screams pierced the air and bodies were flung in different directions.
Eye-Witness Accounts: Screams, Blood, and Unanswered Prayers
Yobe Market, on what should have been a normal trading day, quickly turned into a war zone as eyewitnesses described seeing lifeless bodies on the ground. Malam Usman Dauda, a trader near the crash site, stated that the bus appeared to be out of control, with the driver honking desperately before impact.
Yobe Market, according to Amina Yusuf, another vendor, witnessed its worst tragedy in years. She recounted how the pregnant woman, who was a regular customer, had just picked up some items before the bus swept her off her feet. “It was horrifying. I still can’t believe what I saw,” she added.
Victims Identified: Pregnant Woman Among the Dead
Yobe Market’s tragic toll included five confirmed fatalities, one of them being a woman eight months pregnant. The Yobe State Police Command, in a briefing, confirmed that the victims’ bodies were evacuated to Potiskum General Hospital, while multiple injured individuals were admitted for emergency treatment.
Yobe Market is currently mourning its dead, as local authorities work to identify all the victims and reach out to their families. Among the critically injured are a young boy and two elderly women, with doctors reporting urgent surgical interventions to save their lives.
Driver Arrested, Investigation Underway
Yobe Market’s deadly incident is now the subject of a full-scale investigation by the police, who have detained the bus driver. Preliminary reports indicate that the vehicle may have suffered brake failure, but authorities are also exploring possible reckless driving and vehicle overloading.
Yobe Market, according to the police, will be part of a broader safety audit involving all major public areas in Potiskum. Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Usman Lawal, assured the public that those found responsible would face strict legal action to serve as a deterrent.
Public Outcry: Demands for Better Road Safety Measures
Yobe Market residents and stakeholders have taken to the streets and social media to demand stronger road safety enforcement around markets and pedestrian areas. Civil society groups condemned the lack of road signs, speed breakers, and traffic control measures around the bustling hub.
Yobe Market’s traders’ association has also petitioned the local government to implement immediate reforms. “Our people are dying because of negligence. We need road barriers, better driver screening, and active monitoring before more lives are lost,” said Alhaji Ibrahim Goni, a community leader.
Government Reacts: Governor Buni Pledges Support for Victims’ Families
Yobe Market’s tragedy drew swift reaction from Governor Mai Mala Buni, who expressed sorrow and promised immediate intervention. In an official statement, the governor directed that the state cover all medical bills for the injured and burial costs for the deceased.
Yobe Market will also benefit from a new safety initiative, as Governor Buni announced the deployment of task forces to assess risk zones in markets and public gathering areas. Plans are underway to enforce regular vehicle inspections, particularly for commercial transport operating around populated centers.
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