At least one person was feared dead in Umuahia, Abia State capital on Tuesday after an articulated vehicle, popularly known as trailer lost control and crashed into a crowd displaying wares on the road side.
The fatal accident which occurred at Ahiaeke Junction along Ikot Ekpene Road also led to the destruction of property.
Despite the efforts of the trailer driver conveying bamboo sticks to avoid casualties, the vehicle struck a keke (tricycle) and dragged its driver under it.
Also, a young man on a motorbike was also hit and dragged under the lorry, resulting in severe injuries.
The crowd who witnessed the driver’s efforts to prevent further damage, protected him from angry mob and escorted him to the Ehimiri Police Station.
The accident occurred before evening, when the road was less congested, and the driver’s swift actions prevented a tragic casualty.
The trailer also narrowly avoided colliding with other vehicles before crashing into the keke.
The incident highlights the need for the state government to address issues of traders displaying wares along the road and bike men positioning themselves in the middle of the road, which could have resulted in more casualties.
Source: ABN TV
