A tragic accident occurred on the Abakaliki-Enugu expressway, Ebonyi State, claiming the lives of five passengers and injuring seven others. The incident, which took place in the early hours, unfolded near the G-Hostel area along the highway.
According to Joshua Ukandu, the State Police Public Relations Officer, the accident involved a commercial bus traveling from Enugu. The bus reportedly crashed and burst into flames after colliding with an obstacle on the road. Eyewitnesses at the scene recounted the harrowing moment when the vehicle was engulfed in flames, preventing many passengers from escaping.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, rescuing survivors who sustained various degrees of injuries. These victims have been taken to Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, where they are currently receiving medical attention. Meanwhile, the remains of the deceased have been moved to the hospital's mortuary.
The Police spokesperson extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that investigations are underway to uncover the exact cause of the crash. He also expressed wishes for a quick recovery for those injured in the unfortunate incident.
This heartbreaking incident has sparked renewed concerns about road safety on the Abakaliki-Enugu expressway, with authorities urging drivers to exercise caution, especially during nighttime travel.