One feared dead, many injured in auto crash

Akpan Umoh, Uyo

At least, one person was feared dead and four others sustained injuries as an 18-seater bus rammed into a motorcycle along Ekparakwa junction in Akwa Ibom State.

The Sector Commander, Federal Roads Safety Commission (FRSC) Akwa Ibom State Command, Mr Matthew Olonisaye, said this in a statement issued to newsmen in Uyo on Saturday.

Olonisaye attributed the crash that happened on 30 June 2023 to recklessness; he cautioned drivers against reckless driving to avoid further road crashes, especially during the rainy season.

“A fatal crash occurred on Friday, June 30 along Abak-Ikot Abasi road by Ekparakwa junction, at about 1540hrs.

“The crash involved a white/orange Jinbei bus with the number plate – SAG466XA belonging to a transport company and a blue Q-Link motorcycle with no registration number.

“One out of 20 people involved was confirmed dead, four sustained injuries while others left unhurt.

“The injured were rushed to a nearby clinic for prompt medical attention, while the deceased was deposited at a morgue as FRSC operatives arrived at the crash scene, having received a report of the incident,” Olonisaye said.

The sector commander described the crash as an unfortunate situation that could have been avoided if caution was not thrown to the wind.

He stressed that recklessness and impatience on the part of drivers and riders have been one of the major reasons crashes abound on our roads.

“It is against this backdrop that the command continually sensitises and enlightens motorists on safe road use culture to avert such incidences of road carnages.

“Hence, all road users are sternly warned, by the against any act of recklessness to the effect that the safety of other road users will be undermined,” he said.

He, however, commiserates with the family of the deceased and wishes the injured victims a quick recovery.

Olonisaye urges drivers to exercise caution while driving to save lives and property.