The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed that ten people lost their lives and another ten sustained injuries in two separate but fatal road crashes that occurred on Wednesday along the Ozalla/4-Corner axis of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, in a statement issued on behalf of Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, said the first accident happened at about 9 a.m. and involved multiple vehicles.
According to the police, a Howo truck belonging to Visco Investment Global and loaded with cement collided with a Toyota Corolla car attempting to overtake another truck. A Foton bus and a Daihatsu Hijet mini bus, which were allegedly driving against traffic, were also caught in the collision.
“Sadly, the truck head and the Toyota Corolla car went up in flames, with five occupants of the car burning to death. A passenger in the mini bus was equally confirmed dead by the attending medical doctor,” the statement said.
Later in the day, at about 3 p.m., another crash occurred along the same road. This time, it involved a Sino truck owned by Global Investment and a tricycle.
“The truck, laden with cement and driving one-way from Garriki Enugu to Nenwe in Aninri LGA, rammed into the tricycle, leading to the death of its four occupants. They were rushed to the hospital but later confirmed dead,” police confirmed.
The command added that ten other persons sustained injuries in the two crashes and are currently receiving medical attention.
Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, described the incidents as “avoidable tragedies” and expressed grief over the loss of lives. He commiserated with the families of the deceased and directed the State Motor Traffic Department to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crashes.
The police boss further issued a strong caution to motorists, especially during the Ember Months, when road traffic is usually heavy.
“No journey is worth the loss of lives. Drivers must exercise utmost care, shun recklessness, obey traffic rules, and prioritize safety over speed to prevent further tragedies,” CP Giwa warned.
