Sixteen passengers were tragically killed in a severe motor accident on the Ekwegbe road along the Enugu/Opi/Nsukka route in Enugu State.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the Enugu State Command, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, reported that the incident occurred around 5:20 p.m. on Tuesday. He detailed that the deceased included 14 males and two females, all of whom were burnt beyond recognition.
Ndukwe described the accident involving an 18-seater white Toyota Hummer bus, which bore the commercial registration number DAS 215 XA from Bauchi State and had “Masha Allah” inscribed on it. The bus reportedly lost control, crashed into the fence of Maduka University along the road, and was being driven at high speed when it occurred.
Initial investigations suggest the vehicle caught fire upon impact, leading to the deaths of all 16 passengers, who were declared dead upon arrival at the hospital.
Ndukwe also noted that two other passengers survived; they were rescued and taken to the hospital for medical treatment by police officers, soldiers, and public-spirited individuals present at the accident scene.
“A preliminary investigation reveals that the vehicle, loaded with edible vegetables, other food items, and the luggage of the passengers, was heading towards Nsukka from the Enugu axis of the road. However, the actual point of take-off and final destination of the vehicle has not been ascertained. Nonetheless, the items have been recovered by the Igbo-Etiti Police Division,” the statement added.
In the meantime, the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, accompanied by officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps, has visited the accident site to assess the situation.
He expressed sorrow over the tragic incident and extended his condolences to the family members, friends, and associates of the deceased, who have yet to be identified.
CP Uzuegbu has also appealed to anyone who might be able to assist in identifying the victims or who has information that could help locate their families to come forward. People with relevant information are encouraged to contact 08098880172 or 08086671202, or to email [email protected].