More than eighteen passengers were burnt beyond recognition in a fatal accident involving an 18-seater bus and a Mercedes Tipper along Enguu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Enugu State, IgbereTV has learned.
The fatal accident took place at Ituku, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State at about 8:30pm on Saturday, April 8, Easter eve.
Eyewitnesses told our correspondent that the tipper with registration number AAA 285 XTR, which was loaded with bags of cement had a head-on collision with the bus (registration number NKE 622 XA) which was loaded with passengers.
According to preliminary investigation, the tipper drove against traffic from Enugu City and then hit the bus which was coming from Aba in Abia State, leading to both vehicles bursting into flames with all passengers burnt beyond recognition, except the tipper driver who was rushed to the hospital and is currently receiving treatment.
Reacting to the unfortunate incident, the Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Ammani bemoaned the incident especially in this Easter season, when Christians are commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and consoled with the bereaved families.
CP Ammani ordered full-scale investigation into the incident, including obtaining the identities of the deceased victims and their relatives.
He cautioned motorist against disobeying road traffic rules.
