Celebration turned to mourning in Nasarawa Eggon on Saturday after a fatal accident disrupted the annual Eggon Carnival, forcing organisers to abruptly cancel the 2025 festivities.
At least two people were confirmed dead after three trucks reportedly lost control and rammed into the carnival procession near Eggon Community Secondary School, the venue of the event. Several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
One of the victims was identified as Miss Blessing from Nasarawa Eggon Zone, while the second was said to be an elderly man.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the trucks ploughed into participants, bringing the colourful procession to a horrifying halt.
Among those injured are Mr Martins Akwashiki of Nasarawa Eggon Zone and an elderly man from the Abuja Zone, who reportedly suffered a broken leg. Both victims were being moved to Abuja for specialised medical care.
The Chairman of the Carnival Planning Committee, Barrister Alaku Dennis, also sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the Nasarawa Eggon General Hospital.
Reacting to the incident, the National Public Relations Officer of Ame Wo Ba Eggon (AWBE), Chief Gale Esson John, described the accident as devastating.
“Accidents like this are always painful, especially when they occur during moments meant for joy and unity. Our hearts go out to the affected families,” he said.
Following the tragedy, the leadership of AWBE announced the immediate cancellation of the 2025 Eggon Carnival. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mark Abashi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries sustained.
“We deeply regret the cancellation of the carnival, but our priority is to mourn with the families of those who lost loved ones and to pray for the quick recovery of the injured. May God console the bereaved and heal the wounded,” Abashi said in a statement.
AWBE said it would continue to update the public as more details emerge on the condition of the victims and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
