Six feared dead in fatal Akwa Ibom road crash

DDM News

Tragedy struck in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria on Wednesday, May 28, as a fatal road accident claimed the lives of six individuals along Mbiabong Itam Road, off the Itu-Uyo expressway.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the incident occurred in the early hours of the day and involved a commercial tricycle, commonly known as Keke, with registration number DUU 407 WZ, and a DYNA truck with no identifiable number plate.

According to a statement issued by the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) Sector Commander in the state, Mr. Edward Odiete, six people were killed on the spot.

The victims included four men, one woman, and two children.

All but the truck driver, who reportedly fled the scene immediately after the collision, were confirmed dead before the arrival of FRSC officials.

The lifeless bodies of the victims were promptly evacuated and deposited at a nearby morgue.

Initial investigations by the FRSC, based on eyewitness accounts, attributed the cause of the accident to speeding and brake failure.

These two factors have been repeatedly identified as major contributors to road traffic fatalities in Nigeria.

This tragic event is yet another reminder of the persistent dangers on Nigerian roads.

The Itu-Uyo road is a major transport artery linking several local government areas in Akwa Ibom State. It also serves as a route for inter-state travelers connecting Akwa Ibom to Cross River and beyond.

Over the years, the road has been a hotspot for accidents due to poor maintenance, narrow lanes, and reckless driving by commercial and private drivers alike.

Although efforts have been made by both federal and state authorities to improve road safety infrastructure, enforcement of traffic laws remains a serious challenge.

In his reaction to the unfortunate incident, FRSC Sector Commander Edward Odiete issued a stern warning to road users.

He urged motorists to avoid excessive speeding, ensure regular vehicle maintenance, and comply with all traffic rules to prevent similar disasters.

Odiete lamented that the deadly crash could have been prevented if the drivers had observed basic safety protocols, including speed limits and proper vehicle checks.

While expressing condolences to the bereaved families, he stressed that the rising toll of road deaths must be tackled through a combination of driver education, law enforcement, and improved road conditions.

The incident has reignited calls for stricter vehicle inspection procedures, especially for commercial vehicles such as tricycles and cargo trucks, which are often involved in fatal collisions.

Meanwhile, a manhunt has been launched by local authorities to locate and apprehend the driver of the DYNA truck who fled the scene.

His arrest is expected to provide further insights into the circumstances leading to the tragic collision.

The Akwa Ibom State government is also being urged by civil society groups and residents to prioritize road safety campaigns and invest in better transportation infrastructure, particularly in high-risk zones like the Itu-Uyo corridor.

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