Many feared dead as multiple vehicles collide in Enugu

By Jude Chinedu, Enugu

Several people are feared dead following a fatal multiple-vehicle crash on the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway on Wednesday, near the New Gariki Market.

The accident, which caused panic among traders and passers-by, involved four trailers loaded with cattle and goods, two commercial buses, two Sienna vehicles, and several smaller cars that were crushed under the fallen trucks.

Although the exact number of casualties was still unclear at the time of filing this report, the scale of the wreckage indicated that many lives may have been lost.

Traders from the nearby market rushed to the scene, struggling to lift heavy tyres and metal parts in an attempt to rescue trapped victims. Many broke down in tears as they battled to reach survivors.

One trader, recounting the chaos, said: “People were driving one-way at speed. Before we knew it, trailers and vehicles collided, and everything scattered.” He blamed the crash on motorists driving against traffic on the newly reconstructed section of the expressway.

The situation remained tense until about 20 soldiers arrived in four gun trucks and a Black Maria. They immediately took control of the scene, directing traffic and creating a passage for stranded motorists, as the crash had blocked the only serviceable lane.

No other emergency responders were seen at the scene, and authorities have yet to release any official statement on casualties or the possible cause of the crash.