Chinedum Treasure
One person on Saturday lost his life while eight sustained varying degrees of injury in a fatal accident in Agu-Awka, along the Awka–Enugu Expressway, Anambra State.
The crash which occured at about 8:45 a.m at Immigration Junction, involved a Sinotruck trailer with registration number AAA920YN, a Toyota Camry with registration number ENU622DR, and a TVS commercial tricycle with registration number NSH684VC.
According to an eyewitness account, the trailer was attempting to manoeuvre its way when it suddenly somersaulted, crashing into the Camry and the tricycle.
“The trailer driver was descending a slope when he noticed the diversion sign placed at the junction and attempted to manoeuvre into another lane.
“The trailer collided sideways with the Toyota Camry, which subsequently hit the tricycle from behind and somersaulted,” the witness said.
Confirming the incident, Sector Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), SRC Margret Onabe identified excessive speeding and inadequate construction warning signs as among suspected factors that contributed to the crash.
She said the crash resulted in one fatality and eight injuries, bringing the total number of persons involved to nine.
According to her, five of the injured victims were conveyed to the hospital for medical attention.
She said, “Upon receiving the information, the FRSC rescue team promptly mobilised to the scene, where they took measures to ensure the free flow of traffic and commenced efforts to clear the obstruction.
“The Anambra State Sector Commander, Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, was also personally present at the crash scene. She made concerted efforts to ensure that the blocked diversion route was cleared and reopened to motorists.
“Through her intervention and the collaborative efforts of the rescue team and other relevant stakeholders, the diversion route was successfully reopened, restoring movement along the affected corridor.
“The Sector Commander expressed her heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased victim, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. She also wished the injured victims a speedy recovery.
“She expressed concern over the incident and emphasised the need for construction companies to provide adequate and clearly visible warning signs, particularly around construction zones and diversion points, to guide motorists and prevent avoidable road traffic crashes.
“Asekhauno further urged motorists to observe speed limits, exercise caution when approaching diversions and construction areas, and remain attentive to road signs and traffic instructions.
“The FRSC reiterates its commitment to prompt emergency response, effective traffic management and the protection of lives and property on Nigerian roads.”
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