Fatal truck collision claims life on deplorable Calabar–Itu highway

A tragic road accident on Monday morning claimed the life of a truck driver along the Calabar–Itu federal highway, a route notorious for its poor condition.

The crash involved two articulated trucks colliding head-on. Eyewitnesses said that deep gullies and uneven surfaces along the road, which has been under prolonged rehabilitation, made it difficult for the drivers to maintain control.

Samuel Otu, an eyewitness, said: “One of the long trucks was conveying stones while the other was loaded with jerricans of palm oil. The truck carrying stones swerved due to the bad portions of the road and rammed into the oncoming palm oil truck, crushing its front and killing the driver instantly.”

The impact caused severe damage to the palm oil truck and disrupted traffic along the busy highway.

Mr. Innocent Tommy Etuk, Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in Cross River State, confirmed the incident and directed officers to evacuate the victim’s body and clear the road to restore traffic flow.

Etuk expressed his condolences, saying, “I deeply sympathise with the loss of life. I have instructed my men to move to the scene without delay to evacuate the body and ensure the highway is cleared for motorists.”

The Calabar–Itu highway, linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, has long been a source of concern for commuters due to its deteriorating condition and recurring accidents.

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!