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From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The House of Representatives has resolved to mourn the victims of a road accident that occurred in Ohafia, Ohafia Local Government Area of Abia State.
Seven people were travelling home for Christmas on December 22, 2024, when their car was run over by a trailer carrying chippings at Nmuri River Bridge, Ebem Ohafia, killing all seven occupants.
According to a statement by Hon. Ibe Okwara Osonwa, the member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, and made available to thesun.ng, the House’s decision followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the lawmaker.
The statement highlighted the deteriorating state of the Nmuri Bridge Access and the F107 road in Ebem Ohafia, which are crucial for connecting Umuahia-Bende-Arochukwu-Ohafia to neighbouring towns and supporting socioeconomic activities in the region.
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Hon. Osonwa expressed grave concern about the extensive damage to the Nmuri access of the F107 Road, which poses hazards for commuters. He noted that the road is riddled with potholes and erosion gullies, causing frequent accidents and delays, especially during the rainy season.
He reminded his colleagues that the contract for the road’s reconstruction was awarded in 2018 to a company under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works, with significant funds paid but little progress made.
“Disheartened by the tragic accident on Sunday, 22nd December 2024, at approximately 1:30 pm, involving a trailer carrying chippings that overturned, claiming the lives of seven innocent travellers, I urge immediate action to prevent further loss of life and property,” he stated.
The House resolved to:
- Observe a minute of silence in remembrance of the lives lost in the accident.
- Urge the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and consider charging the company awarded the contract with corporate manslaughter.
- Direct the House Committees on Works, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Public Accounts, and Public Procurement to jointly investigate the activities and funding of the project.
Hon. Osonwa urged his colleagues to act swiftly to ensure the repair of critical infrastructure in his constituency to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies.
