An eight-year-old girl has died while several other passengers sustained injuries in a road accident along the Onitsha–Enugu Expressway in Anambra State.
The crash occurred on Sunday near the Anabel Event Centre in Awka when a commercial bus travelling from Nnewi to Enugu lost control and overturned.
The Anambra State Fire Service confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Media and Publicity Unit, headed by Chukwudi Chiketa.
According to the statement, the affected bus, popularly known as “tracas”, was carrying 14 passengers when the accident occurred.
The Fire Service said it received an emergency call at about 3:30pm and immediately deployed personnel to the scene.
On arrival, the responders assessed the situation, secured the area and assisted in rescuing and evacuating the victims.
“Several passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and were evacuated and taken to the hospital for medical attention. Sadly, an eight-year-old child lost her life in the accident,” the statement said.
The agency added that the vehicle sustained damage to some parts but there was no fire outbreak following the crash.
Fire Service personnel reportedly remained at the scene while safety measures were put in place to prevent a secondary incident and ensure that the area was safe.
The responding team left the scene at about 5:45pm after the situation had been brought under control.
The Anambra State Fire Service subsequently advised motorists and other road users to exercise caution, avoid excessive speed and remain vigilant, particularly when transporting passengers.
The agency also reiterated its safety message, saying, “Fire kills, but we can prevent it.”
