At least 15 people were killed and several others injured when a truck crashed into four mini-buses in Owerri, Imo State capital.
The incident occurred at about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at Imo State University Junction, otherwise known as IMSU Junction.
According to eyewitnesses the truck appeared to have suffered brake failure.
“We believe that the truck had brake failure and crashed into some minibuses that usually load at the junction,” Chinedu Opara, a witness, said.
“The four minibuses had nine passengers each. More than 15 people died on the spot. Some were rushed to Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri,” Ms Nwosu said.
Videos of the incident went viral on social media on Saturday.
According to PREMIUM TIMES the police spokesperson in Imo State, Henry Okoye, confirmed the development.
Mr Okoye, an assistant superintendent of police, said what happened was that the speeding truck veered off the road and headed to the pedestrian area, crushing occupants of the minibuses and pedestrians.
The spokesperson said upon the receipt of the information about the incident, a police traffic team and other patrol teams were deployed to the area to assist in taking victims to hospitals.
“Unfortunately, on arriving at the hospital, six persons were confirmed dead by medical doctors,” he said.
“It’s an unfortunate situation.”
Mr Okoye said the driver of the truck had been arrested over the incident.
The latest incident occurred exactly one month after at least five people were killed in an accident along the Owerri-Onitsha Expressway in Owerri.
The accident happened when a luxurious bus, conveying members of the Lord’s Chosen Church, collided with a Tipper vehicle in the area.