Just in: Several Feared Dead in Anambra Road Accident

An unspecified number of people died when a trailer lost control and crushed two tricycles at Oba on the Onitsha-Owerri Expressway in Idemili South Local Government Area, Anambra State, on Sunday.

Reports indicate the fatal accident occurred around 9 am as the victims were on their way to a church service. Eyewitnesses said the heavy-duty truck’s brakes failed, causing the driver to lose control and crash into the tricycles, pushing some of the passengers into a ditch.

Some victims were run over by the truck, with others caught under the tires. An eyewitness, Amaka, explained that the accident happened when revenue collectors stopped the tricycles for money. The oncoming truck, with failed brakes, then rammed into the tricycles, pushing them into the ditch. Emergency responders arrived to assist the injured and retrieve the bodies. So far, five deaths have been confirmed, with the search for more casualties ongoing.

Videos circulating online show the aftermath, with bodies scattered on the road. Witnesses mentioned the tricycles were hit because they were close to each other.

Crowds have gathered at the scene, causing significant traffic as people rush to the site. Local authorities are investigating the accident, focusing on the brake failure and the role of the tax collectors.

The Federal Road Safety Corps Sector Commander in Anambra State, Adeoye Irelewuyi, confirmed the incident in a brief statement, noting that details are still being gathered. He also mentioned that some youths and others in the town are reportedly protesting the incident.