The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the deaths of 10 persons in two multiple accidents involving seven vehicles along the Ozalla axis of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
The Sector Commander of FRSC Enugu State Command, Mr. Franklin Agbakoba, disclosed the details during a press briefing in Enugu on Thursday, describing the incidents as tragic and avoidable.
According to Agbakoba, the two separate accidents occurred on Wednesday at about 9:30 am and 3:45 pm respectively, within the Police Estate and Toll Gate areas of Ozalla.
“As usual, our personnel from the FRSC Ozalla Unit responded swiftly, rescuing over 30 individuals. Some of the victims with serious injuries were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical attention,” he said.
The first crash involved a trailer, two buses, and a car, affecting 34 people, 22 males, 11 females and one child.
Nine fatalities occurred at the scene, with another victim dying later in the hospital.
10 injuries were recorded (1 male, 9 females).
19 males were rescued unhurt.
The second crash, which occurred later in the afternoon, involved two trailers and a tricycle, with six male victims:
One fatality, one injury, and one male rescued unhurt.
In total, 40 people were involved in both crashes, 10 fatalities, 11 injuries and 20 males rescued without injuries.
Agbakoba attributed the accidents to basic Road Traffic Violations (RTVs), particularly driving against traffic, a dangerous and recurring issue along that axis.
“The Ozalla axis has been notorious for motorists violating traffic rules, especially by taking the wrong lane. Our unit at Ozalla has been consistent in enforcing traffic laws and conducting road safety education in the area,” he stated.
He revealed that three drivers were recently apprehended in August for such violations at the same accident-prone zone.
The Sector Commander appealed for the installation of caution signs in the affected areas, especially since road construction is ongoing along the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
“We urge road users to exercise patience and drive with caution in construction zones. A little patience can save lives,” he added.
