Four feared dead, one injured in Anambra auto crash

By Goodness Ndukuba, Awka

Four persons on Monday were feared dead while another sustained injury in a ghastly motor accident along the Awka–Enugu Expressway in Anambra state.

The incident which occurred around 4.31am opposite Old Government House, Awka, in the early hours of Monday involved a Toyota Camry car with five male adults on board.

The driver was said to be on excessive speed when the vehicle suddenly veered off the road into a nearby drainage, hit a culvert and somersaulted.

Confirming the incident, Sector Public Education Officer, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) SRC Margaret Onabe said four male adults lost their lives, while another male adult sustained injuries.

She said the victim was evacuated to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

She said, “Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Anambra State Sector Command, has confirmed a fatal road traffic crash involving a white Toyota Camry with registration number ASB 264 AV, occurred at approximately 4:31 a.m. and involved five male adults.

“Before the arrival of the FRSC rescue team, the victims had reportedly been evacuated to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Awka, where three were confirmed dead and deposited in the mortuary.

“The fourth victim was subsequently taken to Apex Hospital, Awka, where he was also confirmed dead.

“The accidented vehicle was recovered and towed to the FRSC Command, while some personal belongings, including cash amounting to ₦185,300 and a car key holder, were recovered.

“The Sector Command expresses its deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes the injured victim a speedy recovery.

According to her, Sector Commander, Corps Commander Bridget Asekhauno, sympathized with the deceased family, cautioning motorists against excessive speeding, particularly during early hours of the morning when visibility might be significantly reduced.

“Drivers are advised to obey speed limits, maintain proper control of their vehicles and ensure that their vehicles are equipped with functional safety devices, including approved speed-limiting devices.

“Motorists are also reminded that speeding significantly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of road traffic crashes.

“All road users are therefore urged to prioritise safety and exercise maximum caution while travelling. Road Safety is a shared responsibility,” she added.