A tragic lone crash at the Oye-Agu Market in Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State, has claimed the life of a young girl. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, was confirmed by the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Anambra, Mrs. Joyce Alexander, who spoke to newsmen in Awka.
According to the FRSC Commander, the accident was caused by brake failure and loss of control by the driver, identified as Eze Uchechukwu. He was driving a commercial Toyota Sienna with registration number NEN588YX, belonging to the Transport Company of Anambra State (TRACAS).
Eyewitnesses reported that the driver, after experiencing a brake failure, lost control of the vehicle, which then plowed into the busy Oye-Agu Market, crashing into several traders. The accident involved seven people in total, including one male adult, three female adults, and three female children.
Tragically, one of the female children lost her life in the crash. Meanwhile, six others – one male adult, three female adults, and two female children – sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Mrs. Alexander stated that before FRSC personnel arrived at the scene, local residents had rushed the injured victims to Urban Hospital and Maternity for immediate medical attention. Sadly, the deceased girl’s body was taken to the morgue.
FRSC officials later visited the hospital to check on the conditions of the injured victims and ensure they were receiving appropriate medical care.
In response to the tragedy, Mrs. Alexander expressed her condolences to the family of the deceased child. She used the opportunity to urge motorists to regularly service their vehicles and adhere to safety standards to prevent similar accidents. She emphasized the importance of maintaining proper vehicle functionality, particularly with regard to brakes, which play a critical role in road safety.
Additionally, the Sector Commander issued a stern warning to market vendors, advising them against displaying or selling their goods by the roadside. She cautioned that such practices increase the risk of accidents involving pedestrians and traders.
“Drive to save your life and the lives of others on the road,” she said, stressing the need for road users to remain vigilant and prioritize safety at all times.
This unfortunate accident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by mechanical failures and unsafe driving practices. The loss of a young girl has brought immense grief to the community, and efforts must be made to prevent similar incidents in the future. The FRSC continues to advocate for stricter vehicle maintenance and heightened awareness of road safety to protect lives on Nigeria’s roads.
