A devastating crash on the Owerri/Onitsha expressway in Imo state resulted in the deaths of “At least 12 people, including four children” on Tuesday.
The collision occurred when a gas tanker truck, identified by the registration number T 16716 LA and “marked with the inscription NUPENG,” was “driving against traffic.”
It crashed into a commuter bus carrying members of the “Jehovah’s Witness Church” traveling from Anambra state to Agwa village.
According to Henry Okoye, the police spokesman, “eight adults and four children” were killed, and “eight others sustained injuries.” The deceased victims have been taken to Ogbaku Mortuary, while the injured are being treated at Divine Hospital Awo-Omamma.
Okoye stated that the police have launched an investigation into the crash and that “the road has since been cleared, and traffic flow restored” thanks to the efforts of police and road safety personnel.
He confirmed, “Regrettably, twelve persons lost their lives in the accident, eight adults and four children while eight persons were injured.” He added, “The deceased have been evacuated and deposited at Ogbaku Mortuary while the injured persons are receiving treatment at Divine Hospital Awo-Omamma.”
He also said, “Wreckage on the road has been cleared and free flow of traffic restored by a team of police personnel led by the DPO of Awo-Omamma in synergy with Road Safety personnel.” The statement concluded with, “Further updates will be communicated as investigations progress.”
The police commissioner for Imo, Aboki Danjuma, offered his condolences to the victims’ families and urged drivers to avoid dangerous actions like driving on the wrong side of the road.