By Karen James
Nnewi, Anambra State – A devastating road accident at Area Command Junction in Nnewi has claimed the lives of six individuals, including three female children, and left four others injured.
Pechilly Investigative reports that the crash, which occurred on Monday, involved five vehicles: a black commercial Sino trailer (UKP-540YP), a white commercial Mercedes lorry (ATN-279ZK), and three motorcycles without registration numbers.
According to a press statement by RC Margaret B. Onabe, Public Education Officer of the Anambra Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the accident was caused by excessive speed, brake failure, and loss of control.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the Sino trailer, heavily loaded with cement, was descending a hill at high speed when it suffered brake failure. The driver lost control, colliding with a Mercedes lorry before crashing into a roadside shop. The impact pushed the container shop into a nearby building, trapping some victims inside.
The casualties include two male adults, one female adult, and three female children, while four male adults sustained injuries. Among the deceased, one male and one female adult were trapped inside the collapsed building.
The FRSC rescue team from Nnewi conducted an extrication operation, and the bodies of the deceased were transported to Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Akammili Umudim, Nnewi.
Anambra State FRSC Sector Commander, Corps Commander Joyce Nnennaya Alexander, visited the crash site, offering condolences to the affected families and assuring them of a thorough investigation. She also met with the owner of the damaged house and the surviving victims at the hospital, noting that their recovery was progressing well.
At the scene, FRSC operatives collaborated with the police to oversee the safe offloading and trans-loading of the cement bags. The Sector Commander also deployed a heavy-duty tow truck to remove the wreckage.
Commander Alexander assured the public that efforts were underway to locate the absconded driver and the trailer’s owner. She urged motorists to regularly service their vehicles to meet safety standards and prevent such tragic incidents.
The FRSC continues to investigate the crash, emphasizing the need for stricter adherence to road safety regulations.
